TIE/rb heavy starfighter

The TIE/rb heavy starfighter, also known as the heavy TIE fighter and TIE brute, was a variant of the TIE line starfighters used by the Galactic Empire, distinguished by its extra pod housing more powerful laser cannons.

Some Imperial admirals were wary of its development, believing it would reduce the need for larger support vessels. Like all TIE models, they were manufactured by Sienar Fleet Systems, and featured twin ion engines and micro-corrugated solar collector panels, with the power being transferred via a conduit located between the panel and the engine systems. The pilot was assisted by an MGK-300 droid brain, which acted in a similar manner to an astromech counterpart.

TIE/rb's were deployed strategically. They were used to attack cargo ships, if needed, cruisers and freighters. During the Galactic Civil War, many were used to hunt down pirate and rebel freighters. TIE/ rb's were also used to overwhelm enemies as a result of their impressive fire power and tough shields.

In 10 BBY, one such fighter was deployed to chase the starship Millennium Falcon  inside the Akkadese Maelstrom and was the last surviving TIE Fighter pursuing the Falcon until Han Solo used a maneuver he learned from a street racer on Corellia, causing the TIE/rb to crash.

Behind the scenes
The TIE/rb was first revealed in the very first look at the Star Wars Anthology Series film Solo: A Star Wars Story, the "Big Game" TV spot released during Super Bowl LII.

Appearances

 * Solo: A Star Wars Story
 * Star Wars: Commander