Advanced Recon Commando

The Advanced Recon Commandos (ARC), also known as Arc Troopers, were an elite variant of clone troopers in the Grand Army of the Republic during The Clone Wars. Developed by bounty hunter Jango Fett, who served as Prime Clone, these clones were renowned for their exceptional individuality and physical prowess compared to their standard counterparts. They were often given difficult duties such as serving as officers in the Torrent Company of the 501st Legion and engaging in covert operations that required direct command.

Unlike their regular clone counterparts, ARC Troopers were not subject to the accelerated growth process, allowing them to be physically older and stand taller than the average clone trooper. They were extensively trained to operate independently, think creatively, and to utilize their individual initiative, traits not usually encouraged in standard clones who were trained for duty following orders.

ARC Troopers wore hybrid armor pieced from various sets, giving them a uniquely “custom” appearance. Certain pieces of their armor were thicker and they also typically carried more weapons, Including the DC-15A blaster rifle, DC-15S blaster carbines, Westar M5 blaster rifles, and a range of other equipment depending on the mission.

As the Clone Wars escalated, the demand for ARC Troopers grew. To quickly fill the ranks, the Kaminoan cloners created a program that selected the most skilled clone troopers, put them through additional training, and promoted them to ARC Trooper status. Some of the most notable ARC Troopers have included CT-1409 (also known as "Echo") and CT-5555 ("Fives"), both of whom participated in several significant missions and battles.

ARC Troopers played a key role in the outcome of the Clone Wars, participating in major battles and missions. They were considered by many as the most elite soldiers in the Grand Army of the Republic. However, along with their increased initiative and independence came a heightened potential for rebellion. Some ARC Troopers, began to question the nature of the war, the motives of the Republic, and their own origins, adding a level of complexity and individual character quality to them in the Star Wars universe.