PTX-140R Hardballer (Lost Planet 2)

The prototype VS that served as the basis for PTX-40A (a.k.a. Ivan) was not a practical choice for combat because of its heavy frame and the amount of power required to achieve thrust. To overcome these deficiencies, the main body, internal mechanisms, and rear power pack were redesigned with lighter and simpler components. This reduced its overall weight to giving it hovering and dashing capabilities that far outstripped the GTF-11. It was also outfitted with the VS Caliber, a close-quarter weapon useful against both Akrid and the mass-produced generic VSs. The Hardballer's manufacturer is unknown, and only a few of these models are known to exist. (One theory holds that it was developed by Snow Pirates to aid them in their efforts to impede NEVEC's colonization activities.) Their prominence in the A.T. era is thought to be the result of extraneous parts being used to rebuild the pieces of a destroyed Hardballer into multiple, new VSs. The R-Type, as it is now called, is an improved version of the original with a more durable frame and increased mobility. It also comes standard with a machine gun on its right side, which enhances its fire power, and, by default, its utility in combat.