In 2382, thru a proposal created by the Starfleet Corps. of Engineers, Starfleet Command initiated a program which would deploy single unit fighters aboard Federation starships and starbases. Similiar programs had existed during the Dominion War, but been discontinued at the end of the conflict.
Vessels designed specifically to accept full fighter groups were to be capable of accepting them by 2387 while a refit program was put in place to allow placement on additional vessels. Included was the New Orleans Class Frigate and the Ambassador Class Mark II Enhanced Scientific Explorer.
In December 2382, the 415th, 417th, 418th and 420th Light Fighter Groups were brought online. Each group has been classified as being composed of squadrons deployed on up to five ships, none capable of supporing an entire wing.
Light Fighter Groups classify as having the capability of handling long range survey missions and short range defense. They are composed of the Confederate Mark I Light Fighter and limited numbers of Peregrine Mark III Medium Fighters. Mark II series fighters have been reserved soley for the use of designated attack groups.
The 2nd Squadron of the 420th Light Fighter Group was deactivated in June 2391 (Stardate 1506.11). Remaining personnel and equipment were absorned into components of the 415th Light Fighter Group located on Starbase 709.
VESSEL PARTICULARS:
Classification:
Confederate Mark I Light Fighter
Number Deployed:
18
Length:
10 Meters
Beam:
13 Meters
Height:
4 Meters
Mass:
25 Metric Tons
Crew Compliment:
1
Cruising Speed:
Warp Factor 2.5886
Maximum Speed:
Warp Factor 4.2034
Armaments:
Type VII Phaser Arrays (4)
Type III Micro-Quantum Torpedo Launchers (1)
VESSEL PARTICULARS:
Classification:
Peregrine Mark III Medium Fighter
Number Deployed:
2
Length:
14 Meters
Beam:
14 Meters
Height:
5 Meters
Mass:
33 Metric Tons
Crew Compliment:
2
Cruising Speed:
Warp Factor 4.0328
Maximum Speed:
Warp Factor 5.1123
Armaments:
Type VIII Phaser Arrays (6)
Type III Micro-Quantum Torpedo Launchers (2)
Number Deployed:
Number Deployed: