Beta-class ETR-3 escort transport

Beta-class ETR-3 escort transport The Beta-class ETR-3 escort transport was a medium-sized troop transport vessel produced Telgorn Corporation.

Characteristics
Well-armed for its size, its four turbolasers and dual-proton torpedo launchers made it a formidable adversary for a lone starfighter. Furthermore, its frontal armament of general purpose warhead launchers (usually fitted with proton torpedoes), laser cannons and ion cannons made capable of assaulting or capturing capital ships and space stations.

Although not as swift as a starfighter, its top speed was comparable with all but the highest performance cargo and troop transports. Despite being more than twice as large, with all these features (especially the evasive capabilities) ETR-3s were reminiscent of the Clone Wars-era LAAT/i.

History
The ETR-3 was a further development of the Gamma-class ATR-6 assault transport. The ETR-3 retains the ATR-6's main hull, giving it approximately the same size and troop-carrying capacity. However, the ETR-3 carries an additional dorsal pod, reintroduces forward-firing laser cannons, and has stronger shields and amour. That being said, the ETR-3's improvements were not a significant advantage over the ATR-6, which remained the mainstay in the forces of the Imperial Navy.

It was also designed in mind to escort construction vessels when establishing planetary outposts on unpacified worlds. With the capacity for carrying up to 40 troops, it was can transport an entire a squad of speeder bikes.

The ETR-3's sturdy design, being suitable for both military and civilian activities, made it popular throughout the Galaxy. Capable of significant modification, the craft took on a variety of roles from simple transport to a platform for testing Admiral Zaarin's advanced new technology.

Notable vessels

 * Omicron
 * Redeye
 * Suluk

Appearances

 * Star Wars: TIE Fighter
 * Star Wars: X-wing vs. TIE Fighter
 * Star Wars: X-wing Alliance
 * Children of the Jedi

Beta-Klasse ETR-3 Eskorttransporter