Guide:Class B4
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| Class B4 / HSA(P)-32 'Big Sioux' | |
|---|---|
| Class Overview | |
| Category | heavy atmospheric shuttle |
| Operational | 2179-2210 |
| Constructed | 922 |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 15.2 m |
| Beam | 9.2 m |
| Height | 3.2 m |
| Mass | 13.9 tons |
| Performance | |
| Cruise Speed | sublight |
| Max Speed | sublight |
| Endurance | 2 days |
| Complement | |
| Crew | 3 |
| Passengers | 10
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| Tactical Systems | |
| Beam Weapons |
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| Canonicity | |
| Design | JamesF63 (DeviantArt) |
| Name | own |
| History | Dan
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Yondercraft quickly took the opportunity to promote their larger brother to the LSA(P)-19 'Little Sioux' to Starfleet, producing just under 1,000 units in only 7 years. The 'Big Sioux' expanded the carrying capacity of the former by a multiple of 5, adding only one additional crewmember, but with a much larger mass and a larger deckprint. Microfusion was again the propulsion method of choice, with the low orbit target for the passengers or optional cargo capacity (of 4.5 tons). Gravitics also drove the vertical takeoffs and landings, though three extendable pads kept the craft elevated off the landing surface.
Unlike the Class A3, the B4's entry point was the stern ramp/door that had a centrally-affixed smaller one-person hatch (which was rarely used). This allowed for easy loading of the bulk cargo, but also quick ingress/egress for delivery of troops. This amphibious combat was supported by the two 15 mw lasers on separate side mounts. Unlike the smaller shuttle, the B4 maneuvered like a brick, though a well-aimed one, when able to barrel straight towards the destination. Life support was similarly minimal, though the craft was the preferred method of traveling over the A3 when justified by more than four in the party, due to the relative comfort of the available space.
Like it's preceding heavier transatmospheric shuttles, the 'Big Sioux' could not mate with external ship airlocks and could not enter the smaller hanger bays associated with line ships, reducing its capacity as an intership transport. Instead, the craft was often used between orbital stations and their host planets or ships outfitted with larger bays.
Gallery
Notes
- While referenced in the Class A6 article as a larger relative to the Guide-canon Class A3, there was no description, history, or imagery to define this heavy shuttle. Therefore, all material herein is generated by me, with the image from DeviantArt's JamesF63. The name was also changed to B4, to reflect the heavy nature of the shuttle.