This experimental walker was designed during the time of the Old Republic. The All Terrain Personal Transport (AT-PT) stands on two legs and requires only one man to operate. The AT-PT was meant to turn the one-man crew into as one-man army, capable of fending off full squads of enemies, boasting a twin blaster cannon and a concussion-grenade launcher. In the end the project was cancelled, although Imperial designers used some of its concepts in designing the AT-AT and AT-ST.
Although it cannot match the speed of normal repulsorcraft, the AT-PT was supposed to be a major component of Republic forces. It was to be used mainly against ground forces, and it was devastating when used in this way. The transport could cover most terrain, from open ground to jungles. The leg suspension, which was independent of the rest of the walker, could adjust to the terrain, allowing the walker to take on inclines and obstacles, which would normally stop repulsorcraft.
The AT-PT is propelled by two side-mounted legs. In order to give the pilot a better view, or just to increase speed, the legs are extendable. Between the legs lies the command pod. The drive system is superior to that of the AT-ST, giving the AT-PT better balance. When moving through cramped terrain, the pod lowers so it is level with the legs’ drive joints, making it look as though it is a half-crouch. In open terrain the walker can achieve speeds of up to sixty kilometres per hour, while its drive unit is capable of dealing with inclines of up to forty-five degrees.
The single crew member enters the command pod via side hatches, although a second person can squeeze into the pod if need be. The pod itself has outstanding protection, provided by its very heavy armour plating. When sealed up, the pod is all but impervious to small-arms fire. The command pod houses all the weapons systems, a primitive sensor system for navigation, and the main drive unit.
In times of battle, the Republic aimed to assign platoons of soldiers to AT-PTs. This would give the platoons the firepower equal to companies of ground forces. AT-PT platoons were much cheaper than other light mechanised units, which made them ideal combat squads. The AT-PT also has a long comlink range, which combined with its speed made the platoons good for patrols.
But in the end the AT-PT was never fully tested in the field. Most of the walkers were lost when the legendary Katana fleet disappeared. When the New Republic discovered the fleet, Luke used one against Thrawn’s forces. This showed that the AT-PT was not a lost cause, and it would eventually get the recognition it deserved.