GOA S.M.A.U slideing down hill

Please Click on the pic to see the non DA blurred version.

Masa S.M.A.U Mech.

The S-MAU design has a number of advantages over a more human type mech design.
Firstly, it can move both bipedally ([link]) and quadrupedally! ([link])

One drawback to bipedal mechs is that standing like a human they present a larger target profile unlike tanks which are low to the ground. The S-MAU, however, can be like a cat stalking its prey.
The S-MAU can quickly lower its target cross-section by going in to a quadrupedal stance and then lowering itself to the ground.
In this mode it can use its back canon to fire from behind cover or instantly pounce on enemy mechs.
On bipedal mechs if a leg becomes damaged walking becomes impossible.
The S-MAU, however, can use its quadrupedal mode if a leg become inoperable.

As with other mechs they are more costly to produce than tanks and so are used as special forces units.
Flanking enemy positions through enviroments to impassable or risky for tanks.

1. Rumored Communications & ECM Antenna that can be used for jamming threats such as missles.

2-3. Main Sensor pod & optics.

4. Ejectable operator pod.

5. Prehensile counter balancing tail. This uses the same principle that kangaroos or cheetahs use to make faster changes in direction possible. It can be used to sweep older more humanoid mechs off ther feet where they can then be pined & neutralized.
If deployed as a third anchor point it grants additional stablily when firing from uneven terrain.

6. Talon Arm. If a limb is damaged it can be ejected from the torso and replaced. Upon locating an airship supply drop the operator can use these arms to resupply his mech in the field.
Spent power supplies, other damaged limbs, weapons, ammo and other parts can be replaced in this way.

7. Talon Feet . Unlike a humanoid-type mech foot, these feet are also capable of grasping. They can be used as melee weapons & provide better footing for the enviroments S-MAU usually operate in.

8. Arm gun. There are versions that attach under or in the arm as well.

9. There are a number of hard points on the limbs which weapons and other devices can be attached. Such as Active Protection Systems (APS) (see [link]) this reduces the need for heavy weight armor. Less weight lowers the mech's power plant requirements and allows more weapons to be carried.

a Laser Target Designator (LTD) can also be attached to paint targets for aircraft and Biger Wepons to Hit.

10. Swivel & folding. Back Canon.