Cygnus SpaceWorks Forn-class executive shuttle by Shoguneagle on DeviantArt (original) (raw)

With the Lambda-class t-4a shuttle approaching almost seventy-five years of service with the Imperial Navy, the design was long past obsolesce in its role as a light transport and dignitary/government official conveyance. Originally to operate independently of escorts, it could no longer sufficiently defend itself against modern starfighters, as its sublight speed, maneuverability, armament, and even ray-shielding were now found lacking. When the bid for a replacement craft manifested, Cygnus Spaceworks, who previously had several of its engineering talent poached by Sienar Fleet Systems for the Lambda-class, were eager to enter the fray and offer a craft that would easily supplant its predecessor and offer something extra: enlarged cabin space and amenities for both the crew and passengers of the basic model.

The Forn-class would deliver improved sublight acceleration, a more powerful Class 0.8 hyperdrive, additional firepower with both twin laser and ion cannons, and that bolstered shield strength to keep it capable of operating without escorts. It would also be equipped with a dedicated communications suite, complete with access to the Imperial CommScan network and the HoloNet, keeping dignitaries and/or officers informed with the most up-to-date news and information available. The ship also boasted a full galley, medical bay, executive suite, guest and staff quarters, and a dual lounge/conference room; nowhere near as spartan in accommodations as other Imperial ships.

However, two significant factors would hamper Cygnus’ bid; the first was that the Forn-class was a dedicated executive shuttle and would not fulfill the light transport role, as it no longer possessed the required cargo capacity to execute such missions. The second was the considerable cost increase over the Lambda; three-hundred and twenty-five thousand credits, as compared to the t-4a’s two hundred and forty. At the height of the Empire, this likely wouldn’t have held much sway, as Imperial officials and flag-ranked officers alike would’ve favored the accommodations. But with widespread modernization and capital ship replacement underway, the Navy could ill-afford diverting funding away from these projects.

By 60 years after Endor, the Imperial Navy at large wouldn’t select the Forn-class and instead opted for a cheaper option. But it would enjoy several hundred orders by independent governments, corporations, and even several Imperial Moffs and planetary governors as private transports.

Commissioned artwork by Adam Kopala (www.deviantart.com/adamkop).

Deck-plans:

Craft: Cygnus SpaceWorks Forn-class shuttle
Type: Executive/dignitary shuttle
Scale: Starfighter
Length: 30.1 meters
Skill: Space Transports: Forn-class
Crew: 2; pilot and co-pilot/navigator
Crew Skill: Astrogation 3D+2, communications 4D+2, sensors 4D, space transports 5D+2, starship gunnery 4D+2, starship shields 3D
Passengers: 6
Cargo Capacity: 10 metric tons
Consumables: 2 months
Cost: Not available for sale
Hyperdrive Multiplier: x0.8
Hyperdrive Backup: x10
Nav Computer: Yes
Maneuverability: 1D (2D in atmosphere)
Space: 6
Atmosphere: 335; 950 kmh
Hull: 3D+2
Shields: 2D
Sensors:
Passive: 25/0D
Scan: 60/2D
Search: 75/3D
Focus: 4/4D
Weapons:
Twin Laser Cannons (fire-linked)
Fire Arc: Front
Skill: Starship Gunnery
Fire Control: 2D
Space Range: 1-3/12/25
Atmosphere Range: 100-300/1.2/2.5 km
Damage: 5D
Twin Ion Cannons (fire-linked)
Fire Arc: Front
Skill: Starship Gunnery
Fire Control: 2D
Space Range: 1-3/12/25
Atmosphere Range: 100-300/1.2/2.5 km
Damage: 4D ionization
Dedicated Communication Suite: As a dignitary transport vessel, the Forn-class is equipped with an advanced communications suite, complete with both Imperial CommScan access and a HoloNet transceiver. When attempting to contact and/or identify Imperial vessels, a +1D bonus is added to both its Communications and Sensors roll checks. Additionally, when in use, the HoloNet transceiver adds a +1D bonus to its Communications roll check; this bonus only stacks when in contact with Imperial vessels.