The Locust was one of the most produced and common Battlemechs of the fallen Star League. Bergan Industries began production of the 'Mech at eight of their facilities in 2499, and was still in peak production when the Star League fell almost three centuries later.
         During the Succession Wars, Bergan fractured and other corporations took up production of the design. Defiance Industries of the Lyran Commonwealth was one of those, and they kept the Locust in heavy use in Lyran scout/harasser companies. The rise of technology after the recovery of the Helm memory core allowed Defiance to upgrade their Locusts with Star League technology. First rushed into full production after news of the Clan Invasion hit, it has remained a constant product of Defiance in the fifty years since.
         After the Jihad ended, Defiance of Furillo even established a factory on Northwind, expanding their market into the Allied Mercenary Command.

       The Locust was originally designed as a light and fast recon vehicle, a role it has fulfilled well for six hundred years. Lightly armed and very mobile, it offers fast recon ability as well as quick strike capability.
       The 'Mech's weakness is its size. Though it packs a great deal of firepower, a main laser and four streak-directed missile tubes, it simply does not carry the armor to back it up. It does carry CASE though which will keep it from exploding should the unthinkable happen.
       As speed is one of its major assets, the Locust is often placed where the front is fluid, as it is quick enough to respond to a possible enemy breakthrough. More often, however, the Locust must fight a holding action until larger, better equipped 'Mechs can arrive.
       It is the rare Mechwarrior who enjoys piloting a Locust for any length of time. It is one of the smallest of all 'Mechs used and is built for running, not gunning, so it outclassed by just about every other BattleMech on the field. Lacking the jump jets and hands of other smaller 'Mechs, the Locust is limited in close firefights or in 'Mech-to-'Mech combat.
       As a direct hit by almost any weapon on the battlefield can destroy or quickly cripple a Locust, it is usually deployed in lance strength, which have the ability to encircle opposing 'Mechs. Many large 'Mechs that wander off in battle have fallen to such an attack.

         The LCT-3S is primarily used by the Federation of Skye. Defiance built a factory on Northwind after the Jihad ended, and the production from that factory has made its way through most mercenary units in the Allied Mercenary Command.