Editing Crusader

{{Otheruses|the BattleMech|the Clan faction|Crusader Clans}}
{{InfoBoxBattleMech
| image = Crusader RGilClan v17.png
| name = ''Crusader''
| manufacturer = 
[[Brigadier Corporation]]<ref name="TRO:3039p294">''Technical Readout: 3039'', p. 294: "CRD-3R ''Crusader''"</ref>
----
[[Kallon Industries]]
----
[[Tao 'Mechworks]]
----
[[TharHes Industries]]
| production year = 2752
| year reference = <ref>''[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/752/ MUL online date for the ''{{PAGENAME}}'']''</ref>
| model = CRD-3R
| cost = 5,686,010 C-bills
| Tech Base = Inner Sphere
| mech type = BattleMech
| feet = biped
| mass = 65
| chassis = [[Crucis-B]]
| armor = [[Riese-500]]
| engine = [[Magna 260]]
| speed = 64.8
| comsys = [[Garret T11-b]]<ref name = "TRO:3039p294"/>
| T&T = [[Garret A6]]<ref name = "TRO:3039p294"/>
| heat sinks = 10
| armament = 
* 2x [[LRM-15]]
* 2x [[SRM-6]]
* 2x [[medium laser]]
* 2x [[machine gun]]
| BV (1.0) = 948<ref name=COGen>''Combat Operations'', p. 121</ref>
| BV (2.0) = 1,317<ref name="TRO:3039p294"/><ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 478</ref>
}}

== Description ==
The '''''Crusader''''' was initially designed as a close combat [[BattleMech]] for the [[Star League Defense Force]], but soon proved itself to be a very adaptable, multirole design.  This reliable workhorse of the SLDF, while not excelling in any one job, was quite capable of accomplishing just about any mission, whether it be close assault, anti-aircraft, counterinsurgency, or even reconnaissance.  Its versatility and large number of manufacturers ensured the ''Crusader'' its place as one of the most common [[BattleMech#Heavy|heavy 'Mech]]s in the [[Inner Sphere]].<ref name="TRO:3039p294"/><ref name=TRO3025>''Technical Readout: 3025'', p. 86</ref>

The ''Crusader'' received its baptism of fire during the [[Reunification War]] and remained a common fixture in the regiments of the SLDF for many centuries.  Even after the fall of the [[Star League]], the various [[Successor States]] continued to field large numbers of ''Crusader''s in their armies, thanks to factories located on [[Tharkad]], [[Oliver]], [[Asuncion]] and [[Bernardo]].  [[House Steiner]] in particular was a notable ''Crusader'' user, thanks in part to their well-trained technicians who could have damaged units turned around and ready to fight in a single day.<ref name="TRO:3039p294"/><ref name=TRO3025/>  A variety of new production variants and field modification kits were turned out for the ''Crusader'' after the recovery of the [[Helm Memory Core]], just in time for the [[Clan Invasion]].<ref name=TRO3050>''Technical Readout: 3050'', p. 156</ref>

In the wake of the Clan Invasion, one of the first new ''Crusader'' variants was built by the [[Cosby BattleMech Research Firm]], the (in)famous producer of the ''[[No-Dachi]]'' 'Mech.  Hoping to overcome the lack of prestige of their previous design and win the favor of the [[Coordinator]], the company acquired manufacturing rights to the ''Crusader'' through the hostile takeover of another company and unveiled an updated variant of the 'Mech around the start of the [[FedCom Civil War]].  Additional variants would continue to be produced in the years since, including models utilized by the [[Word of Blake]] during the [[Jihad]].<ref name=TROPP>''Technical Readout: Project Phoenix'', p. 40</ref>

== Weapons and Equipment ==
The primary long-range weapons on the ''Crusader'' were two [[Magna Longbow-15]] [[LRM-15]] launchers, providing the ''Crusader'' with long-range fire support capabilities that can compete with the ''[[Archer]]'' and ''[[Catapult]]''.  These were supplied by two tons of reloads split between the side torsos.  For short-range combat, the 'Mech carried two [[Harpoon-6]] [[SRM-6]] launchers and two [[Medium laser#Intek|Intek medium laser]]s. Finally, to deter infantry attacks against the ''Crusader'', two [[machine gun#M100 Heavy|M100 Heavy]]<!-- model name is M100 Heavy; these are NOT heavy machine guns --> [[machine gun]]s were mounted on the 'Mech.  One ton each of SRM and machine gun ammunition was carried in the center torso.<ref name="TRO:3039p294"/><ref name=TRO3025/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 147</ref>

Each arm was equipped with an LRM launcher, laser, and machine gun, while the SRM launchers were built into the legs and mounted at hip height to provide a stable firing location and avoid interference with the LRMs' flight path.  Early ''Crusader'' models had issues with the arm-mounted launchers and lasers overheating and causing stress to the actuators and internal structure, but this was rectified with the additions of the now-distinctive collars which deflect hot gases away.<ref name="TRO:3039p294"/><ref name=TRO3025/>

The ''Crusader'' was well-protected with twelve tons of armor, particularly around the legs, which made it a good hand-to-hand combatant.  A thirteen and a half ton [[fusion engine]] allowed the ''Crusader'' to achieve a decent cruising speed of 43.2 km/h.  One disadvantage to the ''Crusader'' was its inadequate heat management system, carrying just ten standard [[heat sink]]s to handle all the waste heat produced by its weapons and equipment.<ref name="TRO:3039p294"/><ref name=TRO3025/>

== Variants ==
*; CRD-1R : Introduced in [[Introduction Year::2596]], the exact configuration of the original ''Crusader'' variant has not been published. However, it was reported by nckestrel on the [https://bg.battletech.com/forums/general-discussion/what-exactly is-the-crd-1r-crusader/ BattleTech Forums] that the MUL notes describe the CRD-1R and -2R as similar, differing primarily by replacing [[Streak SRM-2]]s of the CRD-2R (which had yet to be invented) with [[SRM-4]]s. Any other differences are currently unknown.<ref>[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/4030/crusader-crd-1r MUL Profile for CRD-1R]</ref>

*; CRD-2R : This [[lostech]] variant was used by the [[SLDF]]'s [[SLDF Royal units|Royal units]]. It used [[double heat sink]]s and utilized an [[endo steel]] internal structure to save mass. This enabled the addition of [[Artemis IV Fire Control System]]s to the LRM launchers. The SRMs were replaced with four Hawk Streak SRM-2s. All of the ammunition was moved to the side torsos and protected by [[CASE]].<ref>''Technical Readout: 3075'', p. 169</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,533<ref>[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/748/crusader-crd-2r MUL Profile for CRD-2R includes BV2.]</ref><ref>''Record Sheets: 3075 Unabridged''</ref><ref>''Record Sheets: 3075 Unabridged - Age of War'', p. 25</ref>

*; CRD-3D : The 3D variant of the ''Crusader'' is a simple modification to make the 'Mech's heat load more manageable. Introduced in [[2756]] and used mostly by the [[Federated Suns]], the two SRM-6 launchers were replaced with two SRM-4 launchers and the machine guns were removed so that the number of heat sinks could be increased by four.<ref name=TRO3025/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 144</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,020;<ref name=COFS>''Combat Operations'', p. 127</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,338<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 475</ref>

*; CRD-3K : Another variant of the ''Crusader'' concentrating on lessening its heat burden, the 3K was introduced by the [[Draconis Combine]] in [[2765]].  It downsized the LRM launchers to [[LRM-10]] models and removed the machine guns to make room for an additional six heat sinks.<ref name=TRO3025/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 145</ref> BV (1.0) = 997;<ref name=CODC>''Combat Operations'', p. 124</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,290<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 476</ref>

*; CRD-3L : The 3L variant of the ''Crusader'' takes concepts from both the 3D and the 3K models to save weight with a twist.  Built for the [[Capellan Confederation]] starting in [[2753]], the 'Mech has removed the LRM-15 and SRM-6 launchers and replaced them with two LRM-10 launchers and two SRM-4 launchers. This frees up room for two additional heat sinks as well as the inclusion of four GM Jetstar [[jump jet]]s, two each in either side torso, giving it a jumping distance of one hundred and twenty meters.<ref name=TRO3025/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 146</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,032;<ref name=COCC>''Combat Operations'', p. 122</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,297<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 477</ref>

*; CDR-4BR : A Star League-tech retrofit of the classic CRD-3R developed by [[Bander BattleMechs]] for the [[mercenary]] market in [[3054]], the 4BR switches to double heat sinks and replaces the SRM-6 launchers with a pair of Streak SRM-2s. The weight saved allows an extra ton of LRM reloads for each launcher to be carried, protected by the addition of CASE in each torso.<ref name="MH3055">''Mercenary's Handbook 3055'', p. 87</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,407<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 124</ref><ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 17'', p. 23</ref>

*; CRD-4D : The 4D variant of the ''Crusader'' was a common Federated Suns field modification kit, utilizing [[Star League]] technology recovered from the Helm Memory Core starting in [[3049]]. This variant replaced the [[medium laser]]s and SRM-6 launchers with two [[Federated SuperStreak|Federated SuperStreak launchers]] and two [[Sutel Precision Line]] [[medium pulse laser]]s, along with adding three additional heat sinks.<ref name=TRO3050/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 148</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,015;<ref name=COFS /><ref name=COCC /> BV (2.0) = 1,309<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 124</ref><ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 17'', p. 24</ref>

*; CRD-4K : A field modification kit based on the 3K variant and introduced for Kuritan forces in 3049, the 4K removes two heat sinks and replaces the two medium lasers of the 3K with Magna 400P medium pulse models.<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 149</ref> BV (1.0) = 946;<ref name=CODC /> BV (2.0) = 1,268<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 135</ref><ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 17'', p. 25</ref>

*; CRD-4L : A Capellan Confederation field kit functionally identical to the Federated Suns' 4D, it used [[Hovertec]] Streak launchers and [[Magna 400P]] lasers.<ref name=TRO3050/> This designation may be apocryphal, with the Liao kit also carrying the 4D designation.{{cn}}

*; CRD-5K : The 5K ''Crusader'' was a complete upgrade produced by [[Cosby Myomer Research Firm - (Cosby BattleMech Research Firm)|Cosby BattleMech Research Firm]] for House Kurita in [[3063]]. The internal structure was replaced with a Foundation CMRFa6 endo steel chassis and the engine upgraded to a Nissan 260 [[XL engine]]. The 'Mech's armament was completely overhauled as well: the primary weapons were two [[Shigunga]] [[MRM 30]] launchers carried in either arm and, as secondary weapons, two [[Victory 23R]] medium lasers split between the side torsos and two [[Victory Heartbeat]] medium pulse lasers in the center torso. To allow the 5K to share targeting data, it also carried a [[C3 slave unit]], and four tons of MRM reloads was located in the CASE-protected left torso. Finally, to vent waste heat, the 'Mech used eleven double heat sinks and carried twelve tons of Starshield A armor.  The electronics were also replaced with a Garret T-11a comm system and Garret D5j T&T system.<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 150; ''Technical Readout: Project Phoenix'', pp. 29–30</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,223 (C3: 183);<ref name=CODC /> BV (2.0) = 1,463<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 126</ref>

*; CRD-5M : The 5M was the official production-model upgraded variant of the ''Crusader'' for the [[Free Worlds League]], introduced in 3049 and using recovered [[Star League]] technology.  Though using the same Crucis-B chassis as before the 'Mech was powered by a Hermes 260 XL engine and carried thirteen double heat sinks to vent its heat more efficiently. The 5M was also capable of jumping up to one hundred and twenty meters with its four torso-mounted jump jets. The 'Mech was armed with two Magna Longbow LRM-15 launchers and two Intek medium lasers in its arms, two Hovertec Streak SRM-2 launchers mounted in its legs, a [[Flame Tech]] [[flamer]] and an [[LFN Lindblad]] machine gun in its right arm, and an [[LFN Lindblad Shotgun]] [[anti-missile system]] on its head.  One ton of ammo for the machine gun was carried in the right arm, while two tons of LRM reloads and one ton each for the AMS and Streak launchers were carried in CASE-protected side torsos.  This variant was built for the [[FWLM]] from Kallon's factories on Ascuncion and Bernardo, as well as the Brigadier plant on Oliver until that planet was captured by the [[Federated Commonwealth]], after which it began building 5Ms for the [[AFFC]].<ref name=TRO3050/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 151</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,348;<ref name=COGen /> BV (2.0) = 1,408<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 127</ref><ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 17'', p. 26</ref>

*; CRD-5S : A production-model upgrade of the ''Crusader'' utilizing [[Star League]] equipment, the 5S was built by TharHes industries on Tharkad for FedCom forces starting in 3049.  It varies little from the 3R model, instead removing the machine guns to make room for double heat sinks, CASE to protect the missile reloads, and the addition of a flamer in the right arm.<ref name=TRO3050/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 152</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,149;<ref name=COFS /><ref name=COLA>''Combat Operations'', p. 131</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,446<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 128</ref><ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 17'', p. 27</ref>

*; CRD-6D : This Kallon variant uses an endo steel chassis and 325-rated XL engine to reach a top speed of 86 km/h. Four jump jets allow it to cover 120 meters per jump. LRM-10s and a medium laser are carried in each arm. The SRM-2s in the legs are replaced by SRM-6s. One ton of LRM ammo is carried in each side torso with a ton of SRM ammo is in the center torso. All ammunition is protected by CASE. Fourteen double heat sinks are carried as well. BV (2.0) = 1,498<ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 17'', p. 28</ref>

*; CRD-6M : This variant was produced in the Free Worlds League starting in [[3074]] during the [[Jihad]]. It carries two [[Streak SRM-4]] launchers in the legs, while each arm carries a [[light PPC]] and [[MML-7]]. The 'Mech's top speed was reduced, so engineers fitted [[improved jump jet]]s to compensate.<ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 252</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,373<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 130</ref>

*; CRD-6T : Another Kallon variant has a top speed of 86 km/h thanks to an XL engine. Each arm carries six medium lasers and the leg mounted weapons are a flamer in each hip mount. Seventeen double heat sinks struggle to keep things cool, but twelve and a half tons of armor protect the 'Mech. A C3 slave unit is mounted in the head, allowing this ''Crusader'' to share targeting data. Kallon's engineers were apparently inspired by the ''[[Nova]]'' OmniMech and the ''[[Tessen]]'' heavy scout when they created this design. BV (2.0) = 1,890<ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 17'', p. 29</ref>

*; CRD-7D : This ''Crusader'' was developed on [[Wernke]]. An XL engine with a [[supercharger]] allows it to sprint at speeds of over 100 km/h. Each arm mounts a pair of [[medium re-engineered laser]]s and an [[MML-3]]. Another MML-3 is mounted in each hip. An anti-missile system is mounted in the head. Fifteen double heat sinks are fitted and to make room for the weapons engineers used an endo steel chassis and [[compact gyro]]. A ton each of LRM, SRM, and AMS ammunition are carried in a [[CASE II]]–protected bay in the center torso. BV (2.0) = 1,681<ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 17'', p. 30</ref>

*; CRD-7L : Utilizing some of the newest technology available in the [[Capellan Confederation]], the 7L was built by [[Tao 'Mechworks]] in [[3067]]. It used [[stealth armor]], making it harder to target. The 'Mech also used double heat sinks and is armed with two LRM-15 launchers, two Streak SRM-4 launchers, and two [[ER medium laser]]s. Finally, the 'Mech carried a [[Guardian ECM suite]] to allow its stealth armor to work. In order to make room, the top speed was lowered to 53 km/h by replacing the engine with a Nissan Fusion 195, though jump jets offset that through increased maneuverability.  Despite its Liao origins, half of the first production run was sold to the Word of Blake.<ref name=TROPP/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 153; ''Technical Readout: Project Phoenix'', p. 29</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,507;<ref name=COCC /> BV (2.0) = 1,860<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 130</ref>

*; CRD-7M : Derived from the CRD-5M, this configuration carries a Streak SRM-4 in each leg for close in work. The arms each carry a light PPC and an Artemis IV-enhanced MML-7. A head-mounted anti-missile system destroys incoming enemy missiles. The side torsos each carry a pair of jump jets, allowing for a 120 meter jump radius, and the XL engine allows a top speed of 64 km/h. Three tons of MML ammo is in the left torso, while Streak, MML, and AMS ammo are in the right torso. All ammunition is stored in a CASE II–protected bay. Designers had to use an [[XL gyro]] to free enough weight for this equipment. BV (2.0) = 1,502<ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 17'', p. 31</ref>

*; CRD-7M2 : A variation of the CRD-7M, this configuration retains the XL gyro, jump jets, armor, Artemis-enhanced MML-7s, and anti-missile system of the original. The Streak SRM-4s and light PPCs are replaced by arm mounted [[large laser]]s. The right arm also carries a single machine gun. The left torso carries three tons of MML ammo protected by CASE II, while the right torso carries a ton of MML ammo, a ton of AMS ammo, and a half ton of machine gun ammunition; All are protected by CASE II. Two additional double heat sinks take the total up to twelve. BV (2.0) = 1,434<ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 17'', p. 32</ref>

*; CRD-7W : The ''Crusader'' 7W introduced in [[3071]] was armed with two Krupp [[MML-9]]s and two [[MML-5]]s, which were capable of firing both LRM and SRM ammunition and were all linked to an Artemis IV FCS that increased their accuracy. These were backed up by two [[Diverse Optics]] ER medium lasers for close combat. In order to carry such a powerful payload, the 'Mech carried an XL engine and an XL gyro to save as much weight as possible. The 7W also used twelve tons of [[light ferro-fibrous]] armor with CASE for protection.<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 154</ref><ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 252</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,221<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 132</ref>

*; CRD-8L : This Capellan ''Crusader'' variant, unveiled in [[3083]], carries two [[plasma rifle]]s, ER medium lasers, and MML-7 launchers. The top speed of the 'Mech has been increased to 86 km/h by using an XL engine, and endo steel reduces weight. Eleven and a half tons of armor and CASE systems were used for protection. BV (2.0) = 1,701<ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 253</ref>

*; CRD-8S : Created in [[3066]] with the mindset of "bigger is better", the 8S ''Crusader'' was built around an endo steel chassis and powered by an XL engine. The 'Mech carried two LRM-10 launchers and two medium lasers but was also armed with the new [[heavy Gauss rifle]], giving it great deal of close to medium-range firepower.<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 155; ''Technical Readout: Project Phoenix'', p. 29</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,711;<ref name=COLA /> BV (2.0) = 1,698<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 134</ref>

*; CRD-8R : Developed after the [[Jihad]], this variant returns to the fire support role. It carries an LRM-15 with [[Artemis IV FCS]], a machine gun, and an ER medium laser in each arm. The traditional SRM launchers in the legs are replaced by [[Streak SRM-6]] launchers. The right torso carries a ton of machine gun ammo and two tons of LRM ammo in a CASE II–protected bay. The left torso carries a ton of LRM ammo and a ton of Streak ammo in another CASE II bay. The -8R keeps the top speed of 64 km/h and is protected by twelve tons of light ferro-fibrous armor. To make room for this equipment, the ''Crusader'' uses an XL engine and XL gyro. BV (2.0) = 1,600<ref name=rg17p5>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 17'', p. 5</ref>

*; CRD-9BR : Derived from the ''Crusader Crael'', this model carries an LRM-10 and [[claw]]s on each arm. The left and right torso have a single medium pulse laser, while the hips carry a pair of standard medium lasers. To reach a top speed of 86 km/h, the 'Mech carries an [[XXL engine]] and an XL gyro. Thirteen double heat sinks are carried, but excess heat is turned to the 'Mech's advantage by using [[triple strength myomer]] to improve ground speed and physical damage. The focus on close combat is clear since the 'Mech only has a single ton of LRM ammo in a CASE II–protected bay. This is enough to provide cover fire as it closes in to short-range. BV (2.0) = 1,615<ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 17'', p. 34</ref>

*; CRD-9R : An experiment in speed, this ''Crusader'' carries a 325-rated XXL engine to reach a top speed of 86 km/h. An XL gyro is also fitted, as are twelve double heat sinks. The armament consists of an LRM-15, a light PPC, and a machine gun in each arm. The hip-mounted missile launchers are standard SRM-6s. A ton of SRM ammo, a ton of machine gun ammo, and two tons of LRM ammo are stored in the right torso, protected by CASE II. Twelve tons of standard armor provide protection. BV (2.0) = 1,612<ref name=rg17p5/>

*; CRD-9S : A post-Jihad rework of the CDR-8S while TharHes' destroyed ''Crusader'' lines were rebuilt, the jump jets were removed from partially-completed CDR-8S chassis to free up the weight to mount the [[Defiance Annihilator]] [[Improved Heavy Gauss Rifle]] over the standard model and additional ammuniton.<ref name=Si5/>

*; CRD-10S : TharHes Industries created this version that mates all [[Clan]]-spec equipment with classic ''Crusader'' design. An endo steel skeleton and an [[Defiance Exalto 325]] XL engine are fitted. This gives a top speed of 86 km/h. Each arm carries an [[Defiance Doom Bringer]] LRM-15 with an Artemis IV FCS, supplemented by a [[Series XIV]] [[heavy machine gun]] and an [[TharHes Aetherbolt]] [[ER medium pulse laser]]. Each hip mounts a [[TharHes Maxi Elite]] Streak SRM-6. The side torsos each carry two tons of LRM ammo and a ton of Streak ammo, protected by integral CASE. The right torso also carries a ton of heavy machine gun ammunition. Fourteen double heat sinks dissipate the heat. BV (2.0) = 2,264<ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 17'', p. 36</ref><ref name=Si5>''Shrapnel'', Issue #5, p. 58</ref>

===Custom Variants===
*; CDR-3R ''Crael'' : Used by "[[Crusading Crael]]", the reigning champion of the DeathRain Arena in Port Krin on [[Antallos]] in [[3057]], this heavily modified ''Crusader'' had huge cosmetic spikes protruding from its chest and shoulders. These spikes served to conceal missile launchers, falling off as soon as the shoulder-mounted SRM-6s were fired for the first time.<ref>''Royalty and Rogues'', pp. 23–24; record sheet p. 69</ref> Its infighter capabilities were maximized by installing [[claw]]s on each arm. BV (2.0) = 1,204<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 123</ref>

===Apocryphal Variants===
{{ApocryphalContentStart}}
''From [[MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries#Rise of Rasalhague|''MechWarrior 5: Rise of Rasalhague'' Expansion Pack]]:''
*; CRD-CR ''Crael'' : Based off the MWO [[Hero 'Mech]], MW5's version of the CRD-CR retains the twin SRM-6 racks in each side torso but drops the four extra machine guns per arm to mount not a claw, but instead an [[arena fist]].<ref name=MW5RoR>''MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries, Rise of Rasalhague''</ref>

''From [[MechWarrior Online]]:''
*; CRD-CR ''Crael'' : With the game engine for ''MechWarrior Online'' lacking support for leg-mounted weaponry and claws, [[Piranha Games]] MWO's Hero 'Mech version of the ''Crael'' instead moves the leg SRM-6 to the torsos and mounts a total of five machine guns in each arm to replicate its close-combat abilities.<ref name=MWO>''MechWarrior Online'' Crusader Sale Page</ref>
{{ApocryphalContentEnd}}

== Design Quirks ==
The ''Crusader'' has the following [[Design Quirks]]:<ref>''BattleMech Manual'', p. 91: Design Quirk Table - Crusader Entry</ref>
* [[Easy to Maintain]]
* [[Rugged|Rugged (1)]]
* [[Stabilized Weapon|Stabilized Weapon (Legs)]]
* [[Ubiquitous]]

== Notable pilots ==
:See: [[:Category:Notable Crusader Pilots]]

==Notes==
* In MechWarrior Online, the ''Crusader''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s hip-mounted SRMs were relocated to the side torsos, as MechWarrior Online does not allow for leg-mounted weapons.
* In German products, the unit's proper name was translated to '''''Kreuzritter'''''. The model code was accordingly changed to '''KRZ-3R'''.
* In French products, the unit's proper name was translated as '''''Croisé'''''.
* Currently, there is no published description or record sheet for the CRD-1R: {{quote|The ''Crusader'' was mentioned as existing at a certain date, that predates Streaks, and the CRD-3R is mentioned as being a downgrade of what became the CRD-2R.  So a CRD-1R had to be created to be the original ''Crusader'' without Streaks.
[https://bg.battletech.com/forums/general-discussion/what-exactly — nckestrel, freelance writer and maintainer of the Master Unit List 03 February 2017]}}

==Gallery==
<gallery>
3025_crusader.jpg|Original [[Unseen]] CRD-3R ''Crusader'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3025|TRO:3025]]''
CDR-Crusader.png|CRD-5M ''Crusader'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3050|TRO:3050]]''
Crd-5k crusader.jpg|CRD-5K ''Crusader'' from ''[[Technical Readout: Project Phoenix|TRO:Phoenix]]''
Crd-7l crusader.png |CRD-7L ''Crusader'' from ''TRO:Phoenix''
Crd.8s crusader.png|CRD-8S ''Crusader'' from ''TRO:Phoenix''
CRD-8L Crusader.jpg|CRD-8L ''Crusader'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3085|TRO:3085]]''
Crusader RGilClan v17.png|''Crusader'' from ''[[Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 17|RG:ilClan v17]]''
Camomercsstealthytigers.png|''Crusader'' in colors of [[Stealthy Tigers]] from ''[[Camo Specs]]''
Crusader BTCTRoW.jpg|''Crusader'' from ''[[BattleTech Compendium: The Rules of Warfare|BTC:TRoW]]''
CrusadingCrael.jpg|The "Crusading Crael's" modified CRD-3R ''Crusader'' from ''[[Royalty and Rogues]]''
Crusader (Stormcloud) BTLegends.jpg|[[Galen Cox|Galen Cox's]] ''Crusader'', "''Stormcloud''", from ''[[BattleTech: Legends|BT:Legends]]''
MWO Crusader.png|''[[MechWarrior Online]]'' Concept Art of the ''Crusader''
Battledroids-Crusader.jpg|''Crusader'' standee from ''[[Battledroids]]''
BattleTech2e-Crusader.jpg|''Crusader'' standee from ''[[BattleTech, Second Edition]]''
Mechs-Crusader.jpg|''Crusader'' miniature from ''[[...Mechs!]]''; also used in ''[[BattleTech, Third Edition]]''
Inner Sphere Direct Fire Lance - Crusader.jpg|''Crusader'' miniature from ''[[BattleTech: Inner Sphere Direct Fire Lance|Inner Sphere Direct Fire Lance]]''
Kell Hounds Striker Lance Crusader.jpg|''Crusader'' miniature from ''[[Kell Hounds Striker Lance]]''
</gallery>

==References==
<references />

== Bibliography ==
<div class="desktop-3-col">
* ''[[BattleMech Manual]]''
* ''[[Combat Operations]]''
* ''[[Master Unit List]]''
* [https://mwomercs.com/crusader ''MechWarrior Online Crusader'' Sale Page]
* ''[[Mercenary's Handbook 3055]]''
* ''[[Prince of Havoc]]''
* ''[[Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 17]]''
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3025/3026]]''
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged]]''
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3050]]''
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3067]]''
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3075 Unabridged]]''
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3075 Unabridged - Age of War]]''
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix]]''
* ''[[Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades]]''
* ''[[Royalty and Rogues]]''
* ''[[Shrapnel (magazine)|Shrapnel]]'', Issue #5
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3025]]''
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3039]]''
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3050]]''
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3075]]''
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3085]]''
* ''[[Technical Readout: Project Phoenix]]''
* ''[[Total Warfare Style Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades]]''
</div>

[[Category:'Mechs]]
[[Category:Free Worlds League BattleMechs]]
[[Category:Star League BattleMechs]]
[[Category:SLDF Royal BattleMechs]]
[[Category:C3 Slave Equipped BattleMechs]]
[[Category:Melee BattleMechs]]
[[Category:German renamed units]]
[[Category:Lyran Commonwealth BattleMechs]]