Nebulon-B2 frigate

Nebulon-B2 frigate The Nebulon-B2 frigate, sometimes referred to as the modified frigate, was a relative of the Nebulon-B escort frigate.

Characteristics
Though it shared a similar profile with its predecessor, the Nebulon-B2 differed in some key ways. The forward pod split into an inverted-V shape which allowed for greater surface area to mount weaponry; furthermore the connecting spar was heavier, rendering it less vulnerable to being split open by heavy fire, and the ship was about 50 meters shorter overall.

Sublight speed was 17% faster, and shield strength and hull durability were both improved. The Nebulon-B2 was also armed with a concussion missile launcher, which was not normally mounted on its predecessor.

History
Most of these ships served in the Imperial Navy, although a few ships found their way into the hands of the Rebel Alliance and other groups, probably in the same ways they acquired the original Nebulon-B. At least one of them may have been modified for medical duties.

Behind the scenes
Like many other craft pioneered by Star Wars: TIE Fighter, the Nebulon-B2 has not appeared in any official material outside of the games.

The Nebulon-B2 may seem somewhat under-gunned for a ship that is supposed to be superior to its predecessor and is described in-game as being "exceptionally well armed for its size." This is presumed to be due to the necessities of game mechanics, since a player in a single starfighter would have little chance of defeating a more realistically armed ship. It should be noted that in Star Wars: X-wing Alliance, the source from which the statistics for this ship were taken, the original Nebulon-B is armed only with four turbolasers.

The Nebulon-B2s have gone through numerous changes between game versions. While they were equal to shielding and hull strength to a Dreadnaught in Star Wars: X-wing vs. TIE Fighter: Balance of Power, their statistics were changed by X-wing Alliance, where they were actually weaker in terms of shielding and armor than its predecessor, and also shorter.

Appearances

 * Star Wars: TIE Fighter
 * Star Wars: X-wing vs. TIE Fighter
 * Star Wars: X-wing Alliance