Command-Link Drone

The Command-Link Drone a type of Tau Drone (small, disc-shaped, semi-sentient machines) employed exclusively by Commander Shadowsun, and possibly other Tau Commanders deemed worthy of using the experimental drone. The Drone consists of an advanced processor unit, which individually has only a basic intelligence (approximately that of a small animal such as a pterasquirrel), and moves about by way of a small anti-gravitic generator and a smaller and much modified version of a Tau Jetpack. This allows the Command-Link Drone to hover over the ground and skim over most obstacles. The Command-Link Drone is networked to Tau officers under Commander Shadowsun’s Command, and allows her to better direct Tau forces during a battle through the Drone’s advanced communication systems. This includes Vespid Stingwing squads with a Strain Leader whose Communion Helm facilitates communication between the Tau and the Vespid.

The Command-Link Drone attached to Commander Shadowsun always stays within close proximity her, and can act as a form of robotic bodyguard if necessary; by getting in the way of incoming enemy fire or close-combat opponents during the course of a battle. It is controlled by an electronic device known as a Drone Controller, which acts as a hub of digital communications between Commander Shadowsun and the Command-Link Drone. It allows a Shadowsun to directly communicate her will to the Drone. Most of the time, the controller operates at a default level that simply keeps the Drone obeying its basic programming, but Shadowsun can also use it to issue simple orders outside the Drone’s normal parameters.

The Command-Link Drone attached to Commander Shadowsun has also been upgraded with a stealth field generator, which Shadowsun to operate without compromising her own ability to remain undetected.