IMW-1 Walker

Developed from a locomotive, the walker utilizes a coal-powered steam engine as its main powerplant. The cab has been moved from the rear of the engine to the front, allowing the operator more freedom of view. Gearing allows the cabin to swivel up, down, left, or right, and has been equipped with a turret-mounted repeating machine gun that can be reloaded from inside the cabin. The cabin can accommodate several soldiers - the captain, the co-pilot, two gunners, and the mechanic. Unlike traditional coal engines that require constant loading of the boiler, this engine has been upgraded with an internal storage compartment with a self-feeding coal auger, thus eliminating the need for a stoker. Two smoothbore small-gauge cannon have been mounted on pivots at the top of the front legs. These cannon are self-loading but have a limited amount of ammunition due to size constraints. The wheel apparatus has been modified with clockwork gearing to allow for legs to be attached. The steam engine also powers hydraulic pumps that articulate the legs, which are controlled from the cabin. Large pads act as feet and help to distribute the weight of the walker. Built of heavy iron and steel, the walker can dominate the battlefield, moving over rough terrain and towering over enemy units. Field trials are expected to begin this week, and Red Bear hopes to continue refining this design for further development.