Aeon Dynamics - Shiva
Shiva, a name known by any soldier, stands at the forefront of both frame and weapons technology. With a focus on automation and AI integration, Shiva's frames are characterized by their unparalleled efficiency and ease of use. Their models often feature cutting-edge AI-agents known as Adjutants, allowing for seamless operation in various environments, from interplanetary shipping to colony construction by even the least trained pilots. Shiva's frames are particularly notable for their adaptability and use of proprietary materials, a reflection of Aeon Dynamics' aggressive acquisition strategies and diverse portfolio. While their frames are highly sought after for their technological superiority, they are also notorious for pushing the limits of machine intelligence, both technically and legally. This has led to some controversy, especially in light of ongoing general mistrust of AI within factions like the Solaris Republic.
Frame Model Naming Conventions:
- Mythological Terms (e.g. Harpy, Tsuchigumo, Chimera, Sphinx, Pooka, Odako, Golem, Banshee, Kitsune, Cyclops, Sylph, Wendigo, Satyr, Selkie, Echidna, Phoenix, Faun)
Centauri Democratic Union - Vector Mechanics
The primary supplier of heavy equipment for both civilian and military applications across CDU-controlled space, Vector Mechanics has made a significant mark in the frame industry. As with shipbuilding, VM frames are renowned for their versatility and modular designs, allowing for rapid adaptation to various needs and environments but they are also not known for particularly interesting or inspired designs.
Frame Model Naming Conventions:
- Mathematical and Geometric Terms (e.g. Matrix, Tensor, Fractal, Polygon, Scalar, Tangent, Vertex)
- General Terms (Havoc, Ruin, Ravage, Wrack, Raze, Scourge, Terror, Sanction, Runner, Vanguard, Siege, Flex, Forerunner, Strider, Guardian, Piercer)
Independent - Ikoma Industrial
Beginning as a small operation building makeshift frames for LSC colonies, Ikoma Industrial has developed into a respected manufacturer of industrial and military frames. Their signature product, the Adaptable Utility Frame (AUF), exemplifies their approach through modular design that can be rapidly reconfigured for various applications. This versatility, combined with their extensive modification kits for customizing other manufacturer's frames, has made Ikoma particularly popular among independent colonies and frontier prospectors. The company attributes its success to three key factors: a cooperative ownership model ensuring all employees maintain a stake in the company's performance, an open culture encouraging experimentation and collaboration, and diverse hiring practices including Exalts and Revs who bring unique perspectives to design challenges. This approach produces frames known for reliability and cost-effectiveness despite the company's limited resources compared to major manufacturers. Ikoma's primary production facility operates from a repurposed SR auto-factory, a derelict space station claimed as salvage after the Secession War. This facility's status remains contested by Solaris Republic officials, though Ikoma's connections with both the LSC and CDU have prevented direct action. This disputed origin, combined with the frequency with which their frames are captured and repurposed by frontier raiders, has earned them the pejorative label "Pirate Frames" among Republic citizens despite their legitimate business operations. Ikoma also has a side business producing weapons and armour with a focus on high price, high performance gear and is best known for their innovations in traditional weapons and armor technology and bespoke warsuits.
Frame Model Naming Conventions:
- Types of Fighter (e.g. Brawler, Boxer, Champion, Gladiator)
Redrock Resources - Morrigan Arms
Morrigan Arms produces rugged, utilitarian frames designed for the harsh realities of frontier life and resource extraction. Their frames embody Redrock's reputation for brutal efficiency, prioritizing durability and raw power over aesthetics or comfort. Morrigan Arms frames are particularly popular in mining operations, industrial sectors, and among frontier settlers who value reliability in hostile environments.
Frame Model Naming Conventions:
- Industrial Frames = Tools and Workshop Terms (e.g. Wrench, Lathe, Anvil, Forge, Chisel, Hammer, Vise, Drill, Sickle, Flail, Harrow, Rake)
- Military Frames = Celtic and Norse Warrior Terms (e.g. Berserker, Einherjar, Fianna, Gallowglass, Huscarl, Kerns, Reaver, Skald)
Xian Lothal - Bellatrix Astra
Produces striking frames characterized by sleek, aesthetically pleasing designs. This aesthetic focus is possible due to the use of molecular construction technology in production; BA frames are partially grown in enormous biot-filled pools known colloquially as "Looms," which allows for highly integrated and organic designs. This innovative approach, combined with their integration of advanced digital interfaces, makes BA frames both expensive and highly sought after by those who can afford them, despite some of the functional and practical limitations.
Frame Model Naming Conventions:
- Rare mythological terms (e.g. Arestar, Azoth, Kami, Oracle, Sukkal, Utra, Yazata, Abatur, Yushamin, Matarta)