The Ostscout was designed for one purpose: scouting. Its maneuverability, high speed, and jump capacity allow it to avoid trouble easily. Poorly gunned and armored, it can only engage the lightest of 'Mechs with a reasonable assurance of victory.
Enhanced sensor arrays and a high-resolution targeting and tracking system supply the Ostscout with a constant stream of data about its surroundings, and powerful narrow-band communications equipment allows the it to report from deep inside enemy territory. With a maximum speed of 129.6 kilometers per hour, the Ostscout can cover ground quickly. Specialized equipment allows it to map as it goes, recording environmental, hydrological, and geological information. Unusual features are automatically noted and brought to the pilot's attention by the onboard systems.
To avoid interference from the magnetohydrodynamic systems, the sensor arrays were installed outside the main chassis. The Ostscout uses its actuator systems to aim its sensor arrays, often travels slowly through interesting areas, waving the arrays in seemingly random patterns. Because the Ostscout has a history of avoiding firefights whenever possible, many are in mint condition and still possess their original League sensor arrays and data evaluation systems. Because these systems are nearly unique today, commanders have consistently attempted to keep the Ostscout out of battle.