Build:Structural Integrity Field
4.5 Structural Integrity Field
(Required)
Cost: Varies
Available: 2063
The Structural Integrity Field (SIF) is a force field running through the structural integrity grid (a network of conductive elements in the hull) which provides protection against gross structural compression, or hull stress. It helps keep the ship together. The following table provides the Class of the SIF, the SU Cost, level of protection (both normal and maximum protection) and the year the specific class was introduced. An SIF is not required for vessels that operate well below impulse speeds (i.e. less than .1c).
(Cardassian: Since their hulls are stronger than those on most ships, the Cardassians often employ slightly weaker SIFs. Most Cardassian ships have SIFs in the Class 3-5 range. Only the largest and most powerful ships, such as the Keldon-class Heavy Warship, have Class 6 SIFs, and Class 7 SIFs are only found on ships uprated by the Dominion.)