Paladin Heavy Infantry

Function: Elite Power Infantry

Current Number: 118,000, 112,000 deployable

Armaments:
TSA-FAMR Assault Rifle
Plasma-edged Sword
Various explosives and utilities for demolitions
Long foot spike

Defenses:
Heavy Power Suit
Skin Shielding Mark I
Heavy Tinechium Shield

Equipment:
Advanced EyeTarget Systems
Long Range Comm Suite

Description:
The Paladins are the top elites in Arizonan infantry forces. Like the warriors of old, Paladins are knights who have voluntarily sworn their service to the Emperor, and also uphold a code of chivalry and honor. The one main difference between them and the knights of yore is that women are also eligible to serve in the Paladins. The training, however, is very rigorous, and considered the most difficult in all the Empire. Paladins who elect to do so also can get bionic implants to enhance their reaction time, speed, sight, and other senses, and within the order the Paladins usually elect from within their local groups champions who show great zeal or prowess to get them, and it is considered an honor when one becomes worthy of one. Shields typically bear the seal of that particular knight or group of knights. Paladins must also be intelligent and adept at problem-solving, and are given basic training into piloting skills should the need arise to fly away from (or to) battle. While a prospective Paladin is chosen by the government, it is, of course, the choice of the prospect to join or not to join.