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Halo Halcyon-class Light Cruiser Flight 2

Although often regarded as substandard by contemporary fleet standards, the Human-Covenant War placed immense pressure on the United Nations Space Command, compelling the recommissioning and refitting of Halcyon-class cruisers. Early refits involved minimal upgrades—typically the addition of a Magnetic Accelerator Cannon (MAC) and six extra Archer missile pods. However, as the war intensified and demands on the fleet increased, more extensive overhauls were authorized, giving rise to the enhanced variants seen later in the conflict.

These final refits introduced substantial improvements: four M33 Sentry coilguns, an expanded complement of 20 Archer pods, and several point-defense emplacements, typically either Rampart or Helix systems. Four additional M66 Sentry coilguns were also installed. Alongside these armament upgrades, significant changes were made to hull composition and internal structure. The original armor was replaced with Titanium-A battleplate, creating room for expanded hangar capacity, storage, and even drop pod deployment bays. The most extensive modifications were carried out on the UNSC Pillar of Autumn, selected for Operation: RED FLAG. That vessel received enhanced armor, upgraded reactors, a three-round burst light MAC, and increased firepower—making it one of the most influential ships of the war. Other refitted Halcyons participated in key engagements such as the Fall of Reach and the Battle for Earth.

This being the first ship we see in Halo, it holds a special place alongside the Paris-class and Charon-class as a fan favorite. That made it essential for me to make this model as lore-accurate as possible. Just to clarify: this is the same base model as the Pillar of Autumn, but not the hero ship itself. That version features six Sentry coilguns and eight Spitfires. I’ll be doing hero ships after I finish the mainline warships, and the Autumn is at the top of the list.

The design comes from the talented folks over at Chokepoint Games, with this specific version created by Malcontent—which explains the signature white stripes. If you enjoy my ship builds, definitely check them out and join their Discord. They’ve got a lot of exciting things in the works, and you might even catch an early glimpse of my next builds.

All that being said, I hope you enjoy this iconic ship—and more will be on the way soon.