Shadow Squadron (Galactic Empire)

Shadow Squadron was an Imperial starfighter squadron assigned to defend the new Galactic Empire and enforce Emperor Palpatine orders.

History
After the fall of the Galactic Republic, valorous clone warrior pilots devolved into ruthless Imperial enforcers as the evil Galactic Empire was born. Shadow Squadron modified their V-wing and ARC-170 starfighters to serve the Emperor's new and more sinister cause, being specially tasked to hunt down pro-Republic remnants after the Clone Wars.

Equipment
Shadow Squadron pilots were normally equipped with DC-15 blasters, and usually carried astromech droids specially programmed for navigational support and starfighter repair. V-wing pilots were accompanied with Q7-series astromech co-pilots for navigation and in-flight maintenance.

Armor
With the introduction of Phase II pilot armor in 19 BBY, Shadow Squadron pilots used helmets that were open-faced. Their flight suit and helmet were mainly black and marked with a discreet silver stripe, as well as the new Imperial insignia in place of the symbol of the Republic. Their chest plates were fitted with forced-ox rebreathers in case of severe damage to their vessel.

Vehicles
After the fall of the Republic and the emergence of the Galactic Empire, war planners determine that a new start is needed. Slow, heavy starfighters are de-emphasized in favor of more nimble and numerous single-seat strike craft. The V-wing, already in limited production, is moved to the top of the priority list, and vast numbers of this dangerous craft are produced in a short time Alpha-3 Nimbus-class V-wing starfighters were redecorated to become some of the first Imperial vehicles of the new Galactic Empire. Shadow Squadron's V-wings had the speed, blasters and maneuverability to make them formidable weapons, and were painted light gray with dark gray markings and stripes.

ARC-170s were originally designed and developed by the Republic for assault and recon operations against Separatist forces. Built for endurance rather than speed and maneuverability, the heavy combat fighter/bombers were being phased out for more nimble starfighters with the rise of the new Galactic Empire. armed with laser cannons and proton torpedoes. Shadow Squadron continued to use the heavy craft for their role in the Empire, modifying and customizing them in order to aid in the hunt for Imperial dissidents and pro-Republic sympathizers.