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The TX-130 Saber-class fighter tank, simply known as the TX-130, the Saber fighter tank, or the Saber, was a light, quick-strike repulsortank used by the Galactic Republic during the Clone Wars and later the Galactic Empire and Alliance to Restore the Republic during the Imperial Era.
Description
A clone trooper in Phase II armor in the cockpit of a TX-130 Saber
The TX-130 Saber-class fighter tank was a light repulsortank manufactured by Rothana Heavy Engineering. The TX-130 was considered quick and nimble for an armored fighting vehicle, and was able to enter a fight quickly, give significant damage, and escape unharmed. In that capacity, it was sometimes compared to the Delta-7 Aethersprite-class starfighter.[1]
The TX-130 was equipped with a versatile complement of weapons. Their primary weapons were a pair of fire-linked heavy laser cannons mounted to the hull. The cannons had a fixed forward firing arc, although, they could easily be brought to bear on enemy targets due the the TX-130's agility. The TX-130 was also equipped with either a twin medium laser cannon turret atop the tank, or a Taim & Bak KB-50a beam cannon. The TX-130 also made use of rapid fire ordnance launcher mounted on each of the vehicle's sponsons. TX-130 tanks were outfitted with lightweight ablative armor, allowing it to defend itself against light anti-vehicle weapons and increase its survivability, which was supplemented by a quick-cycling shield generator.[1]
Role
The TX-130 was designed to provide infantry support, engage light enemy armor, and escort allied forces. TX-130 used their mix of versatile weapons to give their Republic Military and Jedi officers tactical flexibility. They were also used for anti-armor and anti-fortification roles with their heavier armament. A group of TX-130 Saber-class fighter tanks was referred to as a squadron, while another sized group was referred to as a platoon.[1]
History
Used early in the Clone Wars by the Galactic Republic's Grand Army, the TX-130 Saber-class fighter tank was utilized against the Separatist Alliance. During the Clone Wars, the fast TX-130 tanks were used to frightening effect, and clone trooper units were at times saved by the arrival of a squadron. Due to the fighter tank's great mix of speed and firepower, the tank was popular among clone troopers and tank crews.[1]
When the Republic transformed into the Galactic Empire,[2] the TX-130 continued into service with the Imperial Army. During the Imperial Era, the TX-130 also came into possession of the Rebel Alliance, whose commanders placed high demand for it. The Alliance tried to expand its inventory with operational tanks and salvaged hulls. Mercenary companies also used TX-130 tanks.[1]
Appearances
- Star Wars Battlefront II (First appearance) (DLC)
Sources
- Knights of Fate (First mentioned)
Star Wars: Legion — TX-130 Saber-class Fighter Tank Unit Expansion
