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{{ImperialGuardPortal}}'''Weapons Platforms''' are heavy weapons used by the [[Imperial Guard]]. Unlike their self-propelled cousins, these platforms must be towed into position, typically by their own dedicated transport which doubles as an ammunition carrier.^{{Fn|1 }} These platforms are commonly used to defend command posts, forward supply depots, or reinforce battlefield strongpoint.^{{Fn|2}}

Each '''Earthshaker Platform''' mounts the same [[Earthshaker (Cannon)|Earthshaker Cannon]] on a standard cruciform platform as found on the [[Basilisk]]. They are one of the most common weapons used in artillery companies, especially during prolonged static campaigns where they can stay in the same position for weeks battering the enemy. Normally dug-in far to the rear, on occasion an Earthshaker will be brought forward for direct fire in support of friendly forces. Each one is crewed by a team of five Guardsmen in order to keep up a good rate of fire; in a pinch a minimum crew of four can suffice, although this is less than ideal. Only the [[Trojan]] support vehicle is powerful enough to tow this platform into position.^{{Fn|1}}

[[Image:HydraPlatform.jpg|thumb|right|Hydra Weapons Platform^{{Fn|3}}]]The '''Hydra Platform''' utilizes the same quad-[[autocannon]] turret as found on the [[Hydra Flak Tank]]. They are typically deployed to defend important static targets against air attacks such as bridges, command posts and airfields.^{{Fn|1 }} Hydra platforms are typically towed into place by Trojan vehicles.^{{Fn|2 }}

[[Image:ManticorePlatform.jpg|thumb|right|Manticore Weapons Platform^{{Fn|4}}]]The least common of the weapons platforms, '''Manticore Platforms''' are equipped with four [[Manticore Missile]]s. This makes them highly versatile and able to fulfill multiple roles, from air defense to offensive bombardment, depending on the warhead with which they are armed. Such is the value of these platforms that it is standard practice to defend a Manticore site with a dedicated squad or platoon.^{{Fn|1 }} Each platform can be towed into place by a Trojan vehicle.^{{Fn|2 }}

*^{{Endn|1}}:[[Imperial Armour Volume One - Imperial Guard and Imperial Navy]], ppg. 184*^{{Endn|2}}:[[Imperial Armour - Apocalypse II]], ppg. 18*^{{Endn|3}}:[http://www.forgeworld.co.uk/Warhammer-40000/Imperial_Guard/Imperial_Guard_Emplacements/HYDRA-FLAK-PLATFORM.html Hydra Weapons Platform]*^{{Endn|4}}:[http://www.forgeworld.co.uk/Warhammer-40000/Imperial_Guard/Imperial_Guard_Emplacements/MANTICORE-PLATFORM.html Manticore Weapons Platform]