The heavy 'Mech ZEU-6S Zeus is the Lyran Commonwealth's pride and joy. The initial design ideas were first put to paper just after the start of the war with the Draconis Combine in 2407. Three years later, when enemy forces were threatening Hesperus II, two Zeus prototypes were already lumbering across test terrains.   The speed with which the Zeus was brought from idea to reality astounded even the most optimistic generals.
         The Zeus also had the best field test a new 'Mech could hope for.   When Kurita forces assaulted Hesperus II, the two Zeus prototypes were there, aiding in the defense of the vital BattleMech factories. These prototypes carried PPCs on their left arms. After the battle, the pilots reported that the PPC was extremely erratic and unreliable. Further research revealed that the PPC's insufficient shielding created wild magnetic interactions between it and the 'Mech's engine. The designers thus decided to drop the PPC in favor of the simpler autocannon to ensure quick delivery of the 'Mech to the front.
         During the FedCom Civil War, Archon Katherine ordered the design licensed to Corean to be produced on New Avalon to bolster Loyalist regiments. Equipped with a new RAC/5 and Ferro-fibrous armor, the 9D is a major upgrade of the old 6S.

         The Zeus was designed to engage enemy 'Mechs with its medium-range weapons while remaining on the move and out of close combat range. It was created in response to requests by Commonwealth commanders for a heavy 'Mech that could perform hit-and-run tactics. The combination of long-range missiles, rotary autocannon, and large laser works well to perform this task.
         Designers placed the 'Mech's missile tubes around and set back from a large central core to help protect the system. The drawback of this arrangement is that the missile-loading system is complicated and prone to breakdown if not serviced regularly. This Federated Suns variant carries much more ammunition than the original ZEU-6S, but still requires regular supply, making it a poor candidate for operating behind lines.
       The ChisComp 43 Special is a laser design known and respected around the Suns. Though in other Zeuses, the large laser was a compact fiber optics design, this Federated Suns variant uses a standard laser, so instead of the common blister there is a short barrel. Though this makes it somewhat more prone to battle damage, it has increased accuracy and power. Also, a barrel has been added to the medium laser because of it's design.
         Even though the Zeus functions mostly as a stand-off weapon, it has no problem closing and grappling with an enemy. Excellent armor protection, especially around the chest and legs, is more than enough to withstand all but the heaviest fire. Strong, heavily armored legs also make the Zeus a feared kicker, while the loaded right arm is very effective in dispatching unfortunate 'Mechs with its punches. (Editor's Note: Most pilots refrain from making close assault attacks with the Zeus because its arms are not very accurate when punching.)

         The ZEU-9D saw extensive use in the civil war by the Loyalist units, and by some Allies who managed to salvage them. Though not at the height of technology, the Zeus is a tough customer and dangerous at medium range. In several cases, the Zeus defeated more advanced opponents who had mounted XL engines, making them vulnerable.

       Many Zeus variants exist, with varying levels of technology. In fact, so many are known that to list them all would be a waste of space. If you see a Zeus, be prepared for anything!

       Since it is still under license, Corean Enterprises has been producing large numbers of this popular 'Mech for the AFFS and mercenary units. Many other Zeuses serve throughout the Inner Sphere and especially the Lyran Commonwealth.