Frigates are the smallest vessels rated for deep space military operations. They’re typically deployed for patrol, scouting, and commerce escort missions when heavier vessels aren’t available. When dragged into fleet actions, they’re usually used in small squadrons as screening units, or if unlucky, for flanking maneuvers.

An alternative, and much more reasonable, lancer design that mounts a trio of three-meter lasers, rather than the unwieldy six-meter laser of the standard lancer. Although significantly shorter range, total damage output is comparable, and total support mass is substantially reduced. The saved mass was directed into an expanded electronic warfare system, ideally increasing the vessels survivability.