The technical discussion naturally extended from hovercraft propulsion systems to broader domains of energy distribution and structural reinforcement.
As Osiris detailed how attack bikes from the Warhammer universe dispersed impact forces through structural layout, and how their heavy armor worked in tandem with anti-gravity fields to optimize energy consumption, Swann fell into a brief moment of contemplation, his fingers idly sketching a force diagram across a data slate.
"...So the key isn't blindly stacking materials, but making the armor a functional part of the system rather than just a burden hanging outside it," Swann summarized, his eyes gleaming with the sharp intensity unique to engineers tackling technical hurdles.
"That logic's pretty interesting. Our CMC powered armor does that to a degree, but clearly... there's still massive room for optimization."
Osiris's gaze flickered slightly; this was a logically sound point of progression.
"Indeed. The design philosophy of the CMC series—modularity, mass-producibility, and comprehensive baseline functionality—is inherently valuable. Its framework serves as an excellent platform."
He paused momentarily, as if retrieving and organizing data, before continuing in a calm, clear tone: "In fact, the 'Far Star Alliance' has long monitored developments in individual protective technologies. Our internal evaluation concludes that the integration of the CMC's power and life-support systems is exemplary among equipment at an equivalent technological tier. However, known windows for improvement exist in its protective materials, joint load-transfer designs, and localized energy cycle efficiency."
Swann raised his head immediately, his intense technical interest completely hooked: "Windows for improvement? Which ones specifically? We've tried plenty of material formulas, but either costs skyrocketed or machinability was terrible. As for the structure, every CMC generation tweaks it, but changing one piece affects the whole system."
"That is precisely the problem," Osiris nodded. "Any modification must be built upon the foundational requirement of preserving its mass-producibility. Thus, a complete redesign is non-viable. A far more feasible route involves targeted material substitutions and localized structural enhancements within its existing, mature framework."
The datapicker on his wrist projected holographic images once more—this time a detailed exploded view of CMC powered armor, specifically the CMC-300 model, flanked by its current primary alloy compositions and performance parameters.
"My proposal is to design an enhanced powered armor based on the core CMC architecture. It would not require ridiculously expensive or scarce materials," Osiris deliberately omitted terms like adamantium or plasteel.
"Instead, it utilizes balanced alloy formulas verified in our Earth-sphere laboratory environments. These formulas are projected to yield a 20% to 35% increase in impact resistance, corrosion resistance, and energy damping characteristics over current materials, while controlling cost increases within 15%."
"Simultaneously, for critical load-bearing paths like joints and spinal supports, we can introduce a proven composite buffer layer design that disperses impact without altering external interfaces, thereby reducing operator fatigue."
Swann stared intently at the data and schematics, his breathing growing slightly heavier.
As an engineer, he understood all too well what this implied: not some pie-in-the-sky concept machine, but a practical, actionable performance boost grounded in existing industrial capabilities. He could almost envision countless Raider brothers wearing far more reliable armor, gaining an extra margin of survival on the battlefield.
"A 20% to 35% performance boost with only a 15% cost increase?" Swann's voice carried a hint of incredulous excitement, though he quickly calmed himself to raise an engineer's instinctive skepticism.
"Are these numbers supported by physical tests? How compatible are those alloy machining processes with our current production lines? And what specific materials and structures make up this composite buffer layer you mentioned?"
"Certain formulas possess complete laboratory-grade performance reports and prototype data, which I can share," Osiris replied, fully prepared. "Regarding machining processes, minor adjustments to your existing casting and heat-treatment procedures will be necessary, but core equipment replacement is not required. As for the composite buffer layer..."
He pulled up a set of complex molecular diagrams and energy absorption curves. "...it is a non-Newtonian fluid material woven from specific polymers and energy-dissipating fibers. Flexible under normal conditions, it hardens rapidly under high-intensity instantaneous impacts to disperse kinetic energy. We can prefabricate it into standardized gaskets to insert into the interlayers of existing armor plates or joint support points."
Swann practically threw himself toward the projection, scrutinizing every detail. His brain worked at high speed, assessing feasibility.
"Material data... I'll need to inspect detailed stress-strain curves and fatigue test reports. But this buffer layer idea—brilliant! If it actually hits the energy absorption rates shown here, it'll be a qualitative leap in pilot protection! Especially against things like a Marauder's concussive shells or heavy strikes from a Protoss Zealot's psi-blades..."
He whipped his head around, looking at Osiris with burning intensity, his previous casual demeanor replaced entirely by solemn professionalism: "Consultant, this isn't just interesting anymore—this could genuinely save lives. You mentioned this is an idea from the Far Star Alliance, so what do you need? Just data validation, or...?"
"We wish to advance this modification scheme," Osiris stated frankly. "The Far Star Alliance possesses the preliminary material formulas and core designs, but lacks engineering experience and combat feedback regarding integration with CMC production lines in this sector's environment.
We require a top-tier engineer who understands the CMC from blueprint to battlefield to assist in translating laboratory schemes into combat equipment. All data, improvements, and experience generated during this process hold immeasurable value for both parties."
Swann hardly hesitated.
He extended his hand—not a polite handshake, but a solemn gesture between engineers committing to a arduous undertaking. "Count me in. This isn't just a favor, Consultant. If we actually pull this off, it's a huge deal for the Raiders and every brother fighting in CMC armor.
I can leverage engineering department resources for early verification and prototype fabrication. But let me lay the ugly truth out first," his expression turned stern, "any modifications, especially material swaps, must undergo brutally rigorous testing. My standards might be harsher than you think."
"As it should be," Osiris responded with equal gravity. "Rigorous testing is the sole prerequisite for reliable equipment. We can begin by establishing a joint project group to perform comparative testing on material samples and fabricate reinforced test pieces for key structural components."
At that moment, the lights of the hangar seemed to center on these two figures engrossed in technological possibilities. In the distance, the Hyperion glided toward a hidden jump point, while here, a technological collaboration capable of altering the fates of countless soldiers quietly took root.