"An excellent starting point," Magos Osiris acknowledged. "Focusing on a few clear demand directions can more effectively control R&D risks and time. 'Anti-Psyker Specialized' and 'Stealth Reconnaissance'… the technical paths are clear."
He manipulated the holographic projection, beginning to sketch and annotate on it, demonstrating how to modify these basic models.
"So, regarding the specific form of cooperation," Kairas shifted the conversation to the substantive stage, "the Inquisition hopes to acquire a batch of test models as soon as possible for field evaluation and data collection.
In addition to the three to five standard models mentioned earlier, we hope to prioritize at least one prototype of the 'Anti-Psyker Specialized' type for verification in the most critical missions.
Correspondingly, the Inquisition will provide the most detailed combat data feedback and is willing to bear part of the additional R&D costs for specialized models."
Osiris did not answer immediately. His optical lenses focused on the specialized model schematic marked on the projection, his internal processor evaluating resource allocation, technical difficulties, and production sequencing.
After a moment of silence, he provided a more cautious timetable: "Yes. The basic framework and system integration for the standard model prototypes will take time. I can have the first batch ready within three months.
As for the 'Anti-Psyker Specialized' prototype…"
He deliberately slowed his speech, emphasizing the complexity involved: "This involves the entirely new development of non-standard components, adaptation with the technology provided by the Inquisition, and most critically, actual performance and stability testing.
This cycle has many variables; a preliminary estimate is one to three years, depending on the smoothness of technical verification.
Furthermore, as you understand, such deeply customized projects require the Inquisition to pay a substantial R&D deposit upfront to procure special materials, activate dedicated production lines, and assemble and maintain a specialized technical team."
"This timeframe is consistent with the objective laws of major technological development." Kairas showed no surprise or dissatisfaction, readily accepting this more realistic expectation.
He knew that within the Imperium's territory, the integration of psychic abilities and cutting-edge equipment was never something that could be achieved overnight.
"The amount and payment method of the deposit can be finalized later by my accompanying technical consultant with your assistant, Sekhmet."
He knew that dealing with the Adeptus Mechanicus, especially when it involved customized R&D, paying fees according to rules was a necessary means to ensure the project entered priority and maintained R&D efficiency.
"As for subsequent formal procurement," Osiris continued, "once testing is complete and the model is finalized, Neksum can establish a dedicated production line to prioritize supply to the Inquisition.
However, I must also state that since the 'iron guard' project has also attracted preliminary attention from certain departments of the Imperial Guard, future production capacity allocation will need comprehensive consideration."
He timely revealed the existence of other potential clients, which was both a statement of fact and subtly increased the value of the "iron guard" and the necessity for the Inquisition to make a decision sooner.
Kairas, of course, understood this implication.
He did not show an eagerness to sign a large order, but his words already indicated a positive intention: "Understood. Excellent equipment always attracts much attention. The Inquisition will conduct a procurement evaluation based on the test results as soon as possible. I believe the 'iron guard's performance will not disappoint us."
He paused briefly, as if mentioning it casually, yet highlighted a deeper strategic consideration: "However, allow me to say one more thing, Magos. If the vast demands of the Imperial Guard are to be considered in the future, perhaps a simplified version could be planned in parallel.
My meaning is to retain the core protection and firepower framework but appropriately reduce the pursuit of extreme performance, for example, simplifying the output of the power core, using lower-cost secondary alloys to replace some ceramic steel, and making some expensive auxiliary systems, such as the psyker protection module we just discussed, optional.
This would allow for providing support capabilities far exceeding current standard equipment to the front lines, while controlling costs.
After all, for most battlefield environments, it is not always necessary to deal with threats like Chaos Sorcerers or Fallen Space Marines."
Magos Osiris' optical lenses subtly shimmered, quickly understanding the logic behind the Inquisitor's proposal.
This was not just about equipment performance, but also about market segmentation and maximizing the user base strategy.
He responded: "A standardized version, more suitable for mass production… technically entirely feasible. Stripping away some high-end customized features and focusing on improving basic combat effectiveness and productivity can indeed significantly reduce manufacturing costs and logistical complexity.
Thank you for your suggestion, Inquisitor. This will help the 'iron guard' technology achieve wider deployment across different levels of military units."
He did not immediately commit to doing so but clearly incorporated this proposal into future project planning considerations.
This once again proved the value of cooperating with the Inquisition; they could not only provide top-tier requirements but also offer pragmatic suggestions from the perspective of the Imperium's overall strategic resources.
The meeting lasted for a considerable time, with both parties engaging in in-depth discussions on technical details, R&D cycles, cost sharing, and preliminary delivery plans.
Osiris consistently maintained the calm and objective demeanor of a technology provider, focusing on answering technical possibilities and setting reasonable expectations.
Inquisitor Kairas, based on his rich combat experience, put forward concrete and practical requirements, pushing the 'iron guard's design concept to evolve in a direction closer to the Inquisition's actual applications.
When the main framework content had been largely discussed, Inquisitor Kairas stood up: "Today's exchange has been very valuable, Magos Osiris. Your professionalism and clear understanding of technological boundaries fill me with confidence in this cooperation. I will have my consultant team liaise with your side for specific details as soon as possible."
Osiris also subtly leaned his massive body forward, indicating his farewell: "I look forward to future cooperation, Inquisitor Kairas. May the 'iron guard' play its due role in your endeavor to cleanse the Imperium's enemies."
After the Inquisitor and his retinue departed, the Seventh Analysis Chamber returned to silence.
The 'iron guard' model on the holographic projection table still hung silently.
Magos Osiris' crimson optical lenses gazed at it.
This contact with the Inquisition successfully propelled the 'iron guard' into a more strategically valuable demand trajectory.
The development of specialized models, while bringing challenges, also meant higher technological barriers and profit margins.
And the Inquisitor's proposal to develop a simplified version to adapt to the Imperial Guard revealed another path to a larger market and influence—by offering different levels of products, it could both meet the high-end demands of elite forces like the Inquisition and penetrate the Imperium's largest military body with economies of scale.
He knew that the real competition was just beginning—he needed to quickly transform these ideas into powerful real-world weapons, using undeniable performance and flexible product strategies to meet the impending attention and pressure from within the Adeptus Mechanicus and other Forge Worlds.