TIE/as Assailant Starfighter
A design derived from the same special projects department that created the TIE Interceptor, the TIE/as Assailant was an attempt to create a shielded, hyperdrive capable starfighter to be piloted by seasoned veterans. More expensive to build and, presumably, maintain, the Assailant was meant to directly compete against X-Wing and E-Wing starfighters, with the speed to compete against A-Wings to boot.
Characteristics[edit]
The dual laser cannon were directly taken from the TIE/de Defender project, giving a strong primary weapons system to the fighter. Complemented by a heavy general purpose launcher, the Assailant could be used as a bomber, anti-capital assault craft, or carry heavy munitions to set against enemy starfighters and installations alike.
The addition of shields, hyperdrive, and life support allowed a pilot to engage in missions away from their home base or starship. This gave the fleets and defense forces that employed the assailant great range and flexibility in mission roles. The Assailant was put to use as a patrol craft, in hit and fade operations against smugglers, pirates, and the starports that gave them safe haven.
Origins[edit]
The TIE/as Assailant is the creation of Adam Kop, who designed the ship from mockup to final graphic. Some statistical elements are his, as defined on his DeviantArt page. Item use permission has been requested and granted by the artist.