The Close Support designation is one with many variations. These 'mechs are designed to inflict serious punishment at close range, in support (naturally) of other company elements. Often called brawlers, these 'mechs can be an important tactical asset, even if their range is mitigated by their selection of weapon systems, which include SRMs, Medium and Small Lasers, Machine Guns and AC/20.
When piloting a Close Support, you will be held within a lance formation until an enemy presents itself and a target is called. In Close Support, you'll have to be Johnny-on-the-Spot with your firing patterns to react swiftly to threats to the battle line. Once the enemy is within around 300m (weapon range for most systems used in these builds), then you can wail with your supporting firepower to bring them down quickly and efficiently.
Though wide in variety, all these 'mechs share some design principles. The design should be weighted toward Firepower, with Armor and Heat being less important due to the (ideally) limited exposure you will have to the enemy, though that is up to the individual pilot. More important to your design specs is the type of mission you are designing the 'mech for. For Close Support, this can be designated Engagement or Escort.
Close Supports designated as Engagement are walking guns meant to focus firepower on a clear and present danger to the formation. Usually mounted on a medium or heavier chassis, these are more brawl oriented and often carry more armor than Escorts. They will form attachments to Front Line or Engagement Lances to bring the fight to the enemy. On ammunition based builds, C.A.S.E. is almost essential.
Close Supports designated Escort are smaller and faster than most 'mechs, but any class up to Heavy could be geared for Escort duty. Escorts are attached to a single 'mech with a lance (usually a Fire Support) and "guards his panties" against any encroaching enemies. The Escort does not leave his charges' side while it is operational. Beagle Active Probe, TAG and ECM are great supporting systems, though Sensor Range and Target Decay modules can prolong the effect of allied Missile Artillery.
In general, XL engines are not recommended for Close Support 'mechs except on Light Escorts. Other modules and systems are dependent on build, but weapon modules fit nicely here as well as strikes to help break up advancing enemy formations. Seismic Sensors are also very useful for Close Supports, as they generally will not be cresting hills to expose themselves to long range enemy fire.
Close Support 'mechs are the fist of the company at short range. They will do lots of damage, mete out lots of pain and claim many kills. However, they can be fragile, and so should not seek out the enemy on their own. Use the company's sensors and heed the Lance Commander's orders, and you'll be given a never-ending smorgasbord of destroyed enemy 'mechs.
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