| |
| Constitution I class frigate | |
|---|---|
| Production information | |
| Manufacturer | |
| Product line |
Constitution class |
| Model |
Constitution I class |
| Class |
Frigate |
| Technical specifications | |
| Length |
304 meters |
| Hyperdrive rating |
Class 1.0 |
| Complement |
|
| Crew |
432 |
| Communication systems |
Holonet transciever |
| Usage | |
| Role(s) |
|
| Year introduced |
24 BBY |
| Era(s) |
|
| Affiliation |
|
The Constitution class frigate, also known by it's construction desgnation, the Class I frigate, was the main class of heavy frigate utilized by the Galactic Republic during the Clone Wars. They were designed for long duration missions with minimal outside support. After the war, several fell into the hands of both the Rebel Alliance and the Galactic Empire.
History[]
The Constitution lineage was constructed by the Utopia Planitia Naval Shipyards and launched some time prior to 24 BBY, and often served as the Galactic Republic´s only hold on several Outer Rim colonies, in addition to their regular patrol and escort duties. The Constitution-class also served as a mighty deterrent to both pirates and Confederacy of Independent Systems, several times taking part in combat actions which determined the fate of the Republic.
The most famous Class I starship was the Enterprise, launched in 22 BBY. The Enterprise gained its reputation during its historic five year mission (24 BBY-19 BBY) under the command of Captain James T. Kirk.
In 22 BBY,, the Enterprise was instrumental in preventing a war between the Federation and the Chiss Ascendancy. When a Chiss Bird-of-Prey crossed the Demilitarized Zone and destroyed several Republic Outpost, Captain Kirk barely managed to outwit the enemy commander and stop his vessel from returning to Chiss and reporting on the Republic's weakness.
In late 21 BBY, Excalibur, Hood, Lexington, and Potemkin took part in the disastrous testing of the M-5 computer, which had been placed in control of the Enterprise. The Excalibur was severely damaged, with 315 of the 432 crew lost. The Lexington also was brutally assaulted by the M-5 computer when the unit became unstable. However, the crew of the Enterprise were able to stop the computer before it did any more damage.