Carrack-class light cruiser/Legends

The Carrack-class light cruiser was an important addition to the Imperial Starfleet in the early days of the Galactic Empire. Although 350 metres long, the small combat cruisers were heavily armed and had a top speed that matched X-wing starfighters.

The standard weapon configuration comprised of ten heavy turbolasers, twenty ion cannons, and five tractor beam projectors. An alternate anti-starfighter version existed that featured an extra 20 laser cannons in place of the ion cannons.

The size of the vessel meant that there was no room available for an internal hangar bay, so an exterior rack was added for up to five TIE fighters for use as recon or courier duties. Due to this lack of support craft the Carrack-class was unsuitable for front-line action and was forced to rely on other ships or bases for support.

In addition, the cruisers were one of very few Imperial starships to feature safety devices to safeguard the lives of the ship's crew. A compartment system inside the hull provided extra protection against the dangers of hull breaches; it was by no means uncommon to find survivors onboard the wreckage of these vessels. The ship's controls were simple and automated enough so that two people could operate the vessel.

The primary role of the class was originally as a support vessel, or patrols within pacified Imperial sectors. As they became outdated, some Imperial dignitaries began using them as private transports.

After the Empire's defeat at the Battle of Endor, desperate circumstances dictated that the ships reinforce the front-line fleets, where they were easily destroyed by newer and more powerful New Republic cruisers.

Appearances

 * Star Wars: Rebellion
 * The Truce at Bakura