Thrymja. Hudson Laboratories product VX-2010, unit 61.

Using even genetically modified dinosaurs in direct fire combat is a bad idea. They are still squishy. Too big to fit in APCs. Not dexterous enough or coordinated enough to handle a weapon. However one role on the battlefield was in ever increasing demand, and that was the role of counter mine and IED.

Bomb dogs could only be trained up to a point. Jammers and RHINOs would only work against some devices, and always there was the danger that a device was trapped- fitted with a mercury tilt switch that would trigger it the moment EOD personelle tried to touch the damn thing. Controlled detonations were not always possible; what was needed was something with a better nose that could be trained to identify the size, type and condition of UXO before the bomb doctor went in. That could sniff out traps and report back to handlers.

The Hudson Laboratories VX-2010 series are derived from the V-2010 series, however have been upgraded to full sapience. Alterations to the size of the nidopallum and cerebellum, surgical removal of the brainstem and most autonomic functions reassigned to homeostasis computers in the chest cavity. The same quantum computing that had allowed their genes to be sequenced replaced much of the brain and upper spinal column to artificially boost an animalistic mind to full thought.

Clones would be used. Easier transplantation of organs and transfusion of blood in event of an injury; the artificial brain components realising the possibility of memory and personality transfers into a fresh body if catastrophic damage was taken. A product with a serial number and inventory designation, exempt from the figure of mounting casualties that so upset the public back home.

Unit 61 was incubated in 2023 and delivered to 33 regiment Royal Engineers. Nicknamed 'Thrymja' by the Explosive Ordenance Disposal team he was assigned to, on account of his feather patterning.