Starship Classification |
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS |
This page was created using information from the Daystrom Institute Technical Library (www.ditl.org) |
DREADNOUGHT |
The most powerful type of ship. Dreadnoughts are typically large and immensely powerful, often able to destroy numerous targets, even fleets and planets, in one fell swoop. Due to their sheer size and strength, dreadnoughts are also very rare. |
BATTLESHIP (CAPITAL SHIP) |
The most heavily armed starships designed to engage enemy fleets with direct and indirect weapons fire from an arsenal of phasers and torpedoes. They are also capable of bombarding enemy targets on or near a planet's surface. Battleships are typically slow-moving and lack maneuverability; they are frequently escorted by destroyers. While not engaged in combat, battleships frequently serve in diplomatic and exploratory situations. |
BATTLECRUISER (WARSHIP) |
Battlecruisers possess armaments and tactical systems similar to the battleship, but are typically smaller and less heavily shielded, instead devoting that power to speed and maneuverability. While not in combat, battlecruisers are typically used as deterrent explorers. |
CRUISER |
Cruisers are the smallest type of starship capable of independent tactical operations. Heavy Cruisers typically possess armaments slightly less than a standard battlecrusier, while Light Cruisers are less heavily armed, with operations geared more toward science and diplomacy. Almost all cruisers are fast and maneuverable. |
DESTROYER (ESCORT) |
Destroyers are fast, maneuverable starships intended to escort larger vessels in a fleet or battle group, and defend them against smaller, short-range attackers. While not engaged in military operations, destroyers are typically used to escort convoys and diplomats, and occasionally embark upon scientific missions. |
FRIGATE (SCOUT SHIP/SCIENCE/RESEARCH) |
Frigates are small to medium-sized starships used primarily as scout ships. They are lightly armed, but usually the fastest ships in any fleet. While not engaged in tactical situations, most frigates are used as research and science vessels. |