Warhammer: The Time Traveler

Chapter 295 Customization Needs (Eighth Update)

“A very good starting point,” Chen Yu agreed. “Focusing on a few clear areas of need allows for more effective control over R&D risks and time. The technical paths for ‘anti-psychic specialization’ and ‘stealth reconnaissance’ are clear.”

He manipulated the holographic projection, beginning to sketch and mark simple lines on it, indicating how to modify these basic models.

"So, regarding the specifics of the cooperation," Keras steered the conversation toward a more substantive level, "the Tribunal hopes to obtain a batch of test models as soon as possible for practical evaluation and data collection."

In addition to the three to five standard models mentioned earlier, we hope to obtain at least one 'anti-pseudo-specialized' prototype for validation in the most critical missions.

Correspondingly, the court will provide the most detailed feedback on actual combat data and is willing to bear the additional research and development costs for some specialized models.

Chen Yu did not answer immediately. His optical lens was focused on the schematic diagram of the specialized model marked on the projection, while the internal processor was evaluating resource allocation, technical difficulties, and production sequence.

After a moment of silence, he gave a more cautious timeline: "Sure. The standard model prototype, with its basic framework and system integration, will take time, but I can have the first batch ready within three months."

As for the prototype of the 'anti-psychic specialized type'...

He deliberately slowed his speech to emphasize the complexity involved, saying, "It involves the development of entirely new non-standard components, adaptation to the technology provided by the court, and most importantly, testing of actual performance and stability."

This cycle involves many variables, and it is initially estimated to take one to three years, depending on the success of the technology verification.

Furthermore, as you understand, these highly customized projects require the court to pay a substantial upfront R&D deposit to procure specialized materials, activate dedicated production lines, and establish and maintain a dedicated technical team.

“This timeframe aligns with the objective laws governing major technological developments.” Kairas showed no surprise or dissatisfaction, readily accepting this more realistic expectation.

He knew all too well that within the empire's borders, the integration of psionic energy with cutting-edge equipment was never something that could be accomplished overnight.

"The amount and payment method of the deposit can be finalized in detail by my accompanying technical advisor with your assistant, Ms. Ignis, later." He knew that when dealing with mechanical engineering, especially when it came to custom research and development, paying fees according to regulations was essential to ensuring the project was prioritized and maintaining research and development efficiency.

"As for the subsequent formal procurement," Chen Yu continued, "once the testing is completed and the model is finalized, Neksam can establish a dedicated production line to prioritize the supply to the court."

However, I must also point out that, since the 'Iron Guard' project has also attracted initial attention from certain departments of the Imperial Guard, future capacity allocation needs to be considered holistically.

He timely revealed the existence of other potential clients, which was both a statement of fact and an implicit increase in the value of "Iron Guard" and the necessity for the court to make a decision as soon as possible.

Keras, of course, understood the implication.

He didn't show any eagerness to close a big deal, but his words conveyed a positive attitude: "I understand. Excellent equipment always attracts a lot of attention. The court will make a procurement assessment as soon as possible based on the test results. I believe that 'Iron Guard' will not disappoint us."

He paused briefly, as if mentioning it casually, but pointed out a deeper strategic consideration: "However, allow me to add one more thing, Your Excellency. If we are to consider the enormous needs of the Imperial Guard in the future, perhaps we could plan a simplified version in parallel."

What I mean is to retain the core's protective and firepower framework, but appropriately reduce the pursuit of extreme performance. For example, simplify the output of the power core, replace some ceramic steel with lower-cost secondary alloys, and make some expensive auxiliary systems, such as the psionic protection module we just discussed, optional.

This allows for support to the front lines far exceeding current standard equipment levels, while controlling costs. After all, most battlefield environments don't always require dealing with threats like Chaos Wizards or Fallen Space Marines.

Chen Yu's optical lens subtly shifted, and he quickly grasped the logic behind the judge's proposal.

This is not just about equipment performance, but also about market segmentation and strategies for maximizing the user base.

He responded, “A standardized version that is easier to mass-produce… is technically entirely feasible. Stripping away some high-end customization features and focusing on improving basic operational effectiveness and productivity can indeed significantly reduce manufacturing costs and logistical complexity.”

Thank you for your suggestion, Your Honor. This will facilitate the wider deployment of 'Iron Guard' technology across different levels of military units.

He did not immediately commit to doing so, but he clearly included the proposal in his future project planning considerations.

This once again demonstrates the value of working with the Inquisition, which not only provides top-tier needs but also offers practical advice from the perspective of the Empire's overall strategic resources.

The talks lasted for a considerable period of time, during which both sides conducted in-depth discussions on technical details, R&D cycles, cost sharing, and preliminary delivery plans.

Chen Yu has always maintained the calmness and objectivity of a technology provider, focusing on answering questions about technological possibilities and setting reasonable expectations.

Judge Keras, drawing on his extensive practical experience, raised specific and practical requirements, driving the design concept of "Iron Guard" to evolve in a direction that is closer to the actual application in the courtroom.

When the main framework was largely agreed upon, Judge Keira stood up: "Today's exchange has been very valuable, Mr. Chen Yu. Your professionalism and clear understanding of the boundaries of technology give me great confidence in this collaboration. I will have my advisory team work with you on the specific details as soon as possible."

Chen Yu also manipulated his massive body to lean forward slightly, as if to bid farewell: "Looking forward to future cooperation, Inquisitor Kailas. May the 'Iron Guard' play its due role in your cause of eliminating the Empire's enemies."

After the judge and his entourage left, the seventh analysis room returned to silence.

The "Iron Guard" model on the holographic projection platform remained quietly suspended.

Chen Yu's scarlet optical lens stared at it.

This contact with the court successfully put the "Iron Guard" on a more strategically valuable demand track.

The development of specialized models, while presenting challenges, also means higher technological barriers and greater profit margins.

The Inquisitor's suggestion to develop a simplified version to fit the Imperial Guard revealed another path to a larger market and greater influence—by offering different tiers of products, he could meet the high-end needs of elite forces such as the Inquisition, and also leverage scale to penetrate the Empire's largest military body.

He knew that the real competition had only just begun—he needed to quickly transform these ideas into powerful, real-world weapons, using undeniable performance and flexible product strategies to counter the impending attention and pressure from within the Cult of Mechanics and from the rest of the foundry world.

(End of this chapter)