RAIJU

Introduction
Speed-based, hit-and-run counterpart to the VECTOR. Capable of carrying the same weapons and having similar stats to its counterpart, but has much more distinct handling qualities.

Usage
At first glance, the RAIJU simply seems like a reskinned VECTOR — but it handles much differently.

Unlike the VECTOR, it has a much higher cruise speed, making it hard to commit to a strafing run. Additionally, the RAIJU's low acceleration means it has difficulty transitioning between maximum and minimum speed: at high speed, it turns like a brick; at low speed it turns well but is susceptible to stalling more easily.

Do not slow down in a non-upgraded RAIJU. Its maneuverability is decent at cruise speed, allowing it to dogfight comfortably. You my find yourself speeding up more often to get to targets faster, so focus mostly on keeping speed up as much as possible.

The RAIJU's high speed makes it suited for knocking down heavier bombers or GRYPHON transports at range in the later days, where large formations of aeros are commonplace as mission targets.

Additionally, at Mark 3 and at level flight or in a dive it can even outrun the dreaded Diamondback.

With a booster attached, slowing down to minimum speed and boosting will allow you to perform an incredibly tight loop. Doing a 180 will essentially cause you to fly backwards by using the momentum gained from the booster, though this will cause it to stall unless you are quick with throttling up.

Trivia

 * The "Raiju" is a deity from Japanese folklore heavily associated with storms and lightning.