Introduction

Roughnecks: Starship Troopers Chronicles is a 1999-2000 CGI animated television series, based on the 1959 novel by Robert A. Heinlein and the 1997 film adaptation.

It follows the exploits of the Mobile Infantry squad, “Razak’s Roughnecks,” during the SICON–Bugs War between a newly united humanity and an extraterrestrial race, known as the “Bugs,” also sometimes referred to as Arachnids.

The show focuses mainly on the Roughnecks’ missions, rather than addressing the larger war.

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Outline

Earth: Day 210.

When it is discovered that the bugs have a vast network of tunnels and colonies beneath San Francisco, S.I.C.O.N. decides the only way to ensure victory is to nuke the city – destroying everything above and below ground.

And because an evacuation of that size would kill many people, as well as tip off the bugs, it is also decided not to warn the civilian population.

Lt. Razak protests this action, and is joined by his old INTEL nemesis Lt. Earle Walker.

Sky Marshal Sanchez gives Razak and Walker 24 hours to accomplish an alternative plan: blow massive holes in the underwater sections of the bug tunnels, allowing water to rush in and flush out the subterranean threat all at once.

If they fail, however, San Francisco will be destroyed by S.I.C.O.N. – along with the Roughnecks and Walker’s Rangers.

The mission is a success, but Razak is killed by a giant Rhino Bug during the final moments of the operation.

Rico is an emotional basketcase – and the Roughnecks must deal with Razak’s death, as the war with the bugs grows more intense on Earth.

Starship Troopers Series

You can find a full index of Roughnecks: Starship Troopers Chronicles here.

You can find a full index and overview of the Starship Troopers franchise here.

Production & Filming Details

• Release Date: 13 March 2000.
• Running Time: 30 minutes.
• Country: US.
• Language: English.