The Hatamoto-Chi was one of the first BattleMechs fielded by the DCMS using advanced construction materials. First deployed by the DCMS on An Ting in 3039, the Hatamoto-Chi was a significant conversion of the Wells Technologies Charger, built in the Combine by Luthien Armor Works.
         The Hatamoto-Chi served the Dragon well over the years, but when the Jihad struck and its main factory fell, the Draconis Combine began to run out of what had become one of its signature BattleMechs. Coordinator Ricol ordered LAW to modify its Charger line to begin building the Hatamoto-Chi, a modification that proved simple considering their common heritage. Within months, the new Hatamotos began coming off the lines and have remained a proud symbol of Combine power ever since.

         Externally, the Hatamoto-Chi is similar to its parent design, retaining the large shoulder assemblies which gives the machine its characteristic silhouette. The most obvious distinguishing characteristic of this class are the radiator fins mounted on the center rear torso and head. The rear fin, resembling an ancient samurai's sashimono (back banner), is what gives the BattleMech its name.
         The 31R differs from other Hatamoto-Chis in that it does not carry any particle cannons in the arms. They are instead placed in the torso, below the SRM-6s on each side. Decorative particle cannons on the arms exist, and Hatamoto pilots practice at making it look to enemies that the weapons fire is coming from them. Two small lasers in the torso give it extra close range punch against armored units. A Dragon's Gaze flamer, like that used on the 30 series, appears to emit its fire from the Hatamoto's eyes, and makes it a fearsome opponent of infantry. Many unarmored souls have died after a Hatamoto-Chi's "gaze" lit upon them.
         The Hatamoto-Chi 31R's final surprise though is buried in the fake particle cannon barrels on each arm. Once a Hatamoto closes with its opponent, the MechWarrior can pull the sword resting in each barrel out and charge into physical combat. Triple Strength Myomers attached to the BattleMech's skeleton make it faster and stronger than most BattleMechs and the sight of a charging Hatamoto-Chi with both swords drawn is often the last sight an enemy will ever see.

         Hatamoto-Chis can be seen in limited numbers throughout the Draconis Rifts, but most of them are in disrepair, fighting at limited capabilities. Those in use by the Azami Caliphate and the Draconis Combine are in the best shape. The Draconis Combine is the primary user of the 31R, though the Azami Caliphate does maintain and use a large number of them as well, some of them acquired after the Jihad and some captured during or after the Second Combine-Dominion War. Only the most elite, the most honored of the Dragon's Samurai are allowed to pilot a Hatamoto-Chi, and it is common to see a lance of them operating together, two 30s and two 31s. As they look identical, it is very difficult to identify which is which until they enter close combat range. Of course, in the hands of an elite MechWarrior, any Hatamoto-Chi is deadly at such ranges, making them a feared sight in the Draconis Rifts.