The cip-quad, formally known as the reciprocating quad blaster cannon, represented a blaster cannon design produced by Merr-Sonn Munitions, Inc.. Originating in the era of the Clone Wars, this weapon was fundamentally a smaller version of an anti-starfighter emplacement. Specialized training programs were implemented for the Heavy Shoretroopers within the Imperial Army to enable them to effectively operate cip-quads throughout the reign of the Galactic Empire.