The Maelstrom support VT was designed to be the replacement of the highly successful Vortex model. All of the second generation VT advancements (override, F.S.S. and greater countermeaures loadouts) where incorporated into its design. The most significant upgrades that this model received was the ability to mount a version of the Multiple Launch Rocket system as well as a larger howitzer (the 550-HW). Unfortunately, Goodman product marketing pushed for the release of the model before sufficient field testing and design integration had been performed, and as a result, this model suffers in a number of key areas. For one, it has one of the lowest durability ratings of the entire second generation VT class, only slightly better than a Vortex model. This is primarily due to the usage of the Scare Face armour augmentation design (as can be seen in the profile of the leg shields and fuselage ablative mounts). The second drawback of the Maelstrom platform is in its close range primary weapon loadout, only differing from the Vortex in the ability to mount a slightly heavier machine gun.

What Goodman did get right was the torque performance profile. Advancements in drivetrain materials as well as optimal positioning of the powerplant give this VT outstanding low range power and adverse terrain capabilities. For this reason alone, Hai Shi Dao commanders favoured the deployment of Maelstrom units along the entire Er Ting range to hold strategic passes and bases.

The Maelstrom saw first combat during the battle for Wa Lo Pass in the Er Ting foothills in December 2084. Deployed out of reach of the attacking PRF Decider forces, the 7th Artillery Support division was able to keep the attackers suppressed and immobile while Scare Face forces cut off their retreat path. 34 prisoners of war were taken and their VTs captured intact when the Decider units were found attempting to avoid artillery fire under assault ramparts and against the canyon walls.




After piloting Vortex units for so long, the Maelstrom was, initially, somewhat of a disappointment. Although it included all of the second generation upgrades (override and F.S.S.) the sortie cost for one unit was four times as much as its first generation cousin without having four times the performance upgrade. Compare this to the step up from a Decider to a Prominence M1 (two times the sortie cost) and you can understand the frustration.

The Maelstrom does have one thing going for it: it can get moving on any terrain, even managing 4th gear uphill or over water without override on. Although it is definitely not the fastest VT in the game, it is the one that is most unaffected by adverse terrain, which makes it an ideal choice for any of the mountainous missions. The 550-HW howitzer is a respectable step up from the 370-HW of the Vortex, but its refire rate is lower and it cannot carry as much ammunition. The 8-MLR can be a very effective weapon, but unless it is strafe-launched correctly it does not do sufficient damage to a single target to prevent an enemy from closing before more than 2 salvos can be fired. Stacking dual-MLR units in place of a howitzer option can be very effective against enemies on adverse terrain. The two units may be cycled to help offset the long refire rate, yielding a potent middle-to-long range weapon.

Because of their low durability rating and comparitively expensive sortie cost, Maelstroms should only be deployed with an escort VT of some kind. This can lead to limitations in possible combat strategies by tying up resources. This is not something that is unique to Maelstroms (the same strategy should be used for Behemoth and Regal Dress A units) but at least with Vortexes losing one didn't cost a team that many sortie points.