Thunderbolt Class

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[edit] Background

The Thunderbolt-class Starfury is the first atmospheric-capable space fighter used by Earthforce. As with the earlier Starfuries, it features a fuselage with four swept-back wings arranged roughly in an X formation, with each wing mounting a fusion-torch type engine. Unlike the earlier versions, the pilot is not in a standing position. Instead, the pilot and co-pilot are seated in tandem in a classic fighter jet-style cockpit. Its primary purpose is as an aerospace superiority fighter as well as bomber.

[edit] Weaponry

The Thunderbolt features heavier weaponry than the Aurora-class Starfury, but not as heavy as the Badger-class.

  • 4 Unidirectional 40mm Pulse Cannons
  • 10 Missile Hardpoints

[edit] History

The Thunderbolt began to supplant the Aurora-class Starfury sometime between 2258 and 2260. They have seen important action in the relatively short time they have been in service:

  • These fighters were used by President Clark to bomb Mars after it declared independence in 2260.
  • In 2260, Thunderbolt fighters fought on both sides of an engagement between EarthForce units attempting to enforce Clark's declaration of Martial Law on Babylon 5.
  • At least one squadron of these fighters, primarily from the EAS Churchill, was stationed on B5 after the failed attempt to capture the station by President Clark's forces.
  • EAS Agamemnon has at least some Thunderbolts, as Captain Sheridan borrowed one to go hunting Mars for his father after he was kidnapped by Clark's minions.
  • The ISA Excalibur also had a squadron of Thunderbolts, along with a complement of Aurora-class Starfuries.
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