The Adrenal-Neuro Tachy-stimulant Patch (A-Patch), also designated Mark IV “Jolt,” is a single-use, bio-dermal stimulant delivery system issued to all combat-ready pilots and special operations personnel within the Unity Accord Fleet. Its primary function is to induce a state of controlled hyper-arousal during extreme combat scenarios, ensuring that personnel can operate at peak efficiency by overriding the natural limitations of fear, hesitation, and fatigue.

Upon activation (see Section VI), the A-Patch delivers a transdermal, multi-phasic chemical cocktail when placed directly over the spine. Microfilaments deliver the chemical. Standard dosage for a 75kg humanoid (Variant 75-B) is as follows:

1. Phase 1 (The “Jolt” – 0-30 seconds): An immediate 0.8mg release of Epinephrine Variant NE-7 and Norepinephrine Analogue NorX-12. This triggers a maximal sympatho-adrenal response, elevating key biomarkers above standard combat thresholds.
2. Phase 2 (The “Focus” – 30 seconds to 24 hours): A sustained, time-released cascade of norotropic stimulant K-113 and synaptic agonist R-2 into the cerebrospinal fluid via the neural implant shunt. This phase suppresses non-essential emotional responses and dramatically increases cognitive processing speed.
3. Phase 3 (The “Removal” – when mission completed): Subject removes patch from spine to withdraw microfilaments and end release. Updated recommendation is slow staged peeling over a period of 1-2 hours to minimize withdrawal effects.

Effective Duration: Maximum 24 standard hours depending on sensitivity and patch removal, followed by a rapid drop-off.
Interaction with Neural Implants: The A-Patch requires a functioning neural implant (Series 3 or later) to properly regulate the Phase 2 chemical release. Use with incompatible or damaged implants is strictly contraindicated (see Incident Report 77-A).

The A-Patch achieves its effect by inducing a state of controlled systemic shock. The subsequent homeostatic backlash is severe.

• Physiological Crash: Includes severe exhaustion, uncontrollable tremors, and high risk of cardiac arrhythmia. A mandatory 24-hour medical observation period is required post-use.
• Psychological Crash (“Combat Dissociation Syndrome”): The most dangerous side effect. The combination of extreme adrenal response and emotional suppression often leads to a temporary dissociative state upon withdrawal. For personnel with pre-existing trauma markers (screened under Directive 1138), A-Patch activation has a 33% probability of triggering a severe and prolonged PTSD episode. Risk increases with repeated use. Long-term use has been linked to chronic anxiety and potential addiction (see Section VII: Psychological Screening).

Use of the A-Patch is authorized only under “Red-Line” combat conditions where the loss of the primary asset (vessel/squad) is imminent.

• Team Coordination: It is recommended that no more than 50% of a bridge crew or fireteam activate their A-Patch simultaneously to maintain overall command coherence and prevent synchronized post-combat crashes.
• Enemy Detection: The massive hormonal and electrical surge caused by activation is detectable by advanced enemy sensors at close range. Its use sacrifices stealth for a temporary burst of performance.

• Procurement Cost: 1.2 Million UA Credits per unit (Fiscal Year 665 AV).
• Supply Chain: The primary catalyst, K-113, is synthesized only at the Yrene “Forge” biodome, making the supply chain a strategic consideration.
• Known Defects: Lot 7 (manufactured in Y-618) has a 0.02% failure rate, resulting in premature Phase 2 release (see Recall Order 904).

Standard Mark IV units can be activated via:

1. Manual Pressure: A firm, 5kg slap or pinch to the patch casing.
2. Voice Command: Mission-specific, encrypted vocal key (“Jolt On,” “Activate Red-Line,” etc.).
3. Biometric Dead-Man Switch: Can be programmed to auto-activate upon detection of flatline vital signs of a designated fireteam leader or co-pilot.

Internal Fleet Medical Command debate is ongoing regarding the long-term psychological cost of A-Patch deployment. A proposal for a low-dose variant for first responders and civilian emergency services was rejected by the Accord Health Council in SC-615 due to “unacceptable risk of societal emotional volatility and addiction potential.”