Idris

Larger than a bomber but smaller than a ship of the line, frigates occupy an interesting space in the pantheon of warships. While they lack the heavy armor and the capital weaponry of a cruiser, frigates are more maneuverable and are highly configurable.

Idris frigates are one of Aegis’ larger present-day designs (in prior years, the company’s shipyards turned out everything up to battlecruisers.) The original Idris-M is a warship that serves alongside ships-of-the-line in the UEENavy. Fast, armored predators, Idris-Ms are used for everything from long duration patrols to scouting dangerous jump points to inderdiction. A properly-outfitted Idris with an effective crew can serve as a torpedo boat; in rare instances, the Idris has even used its speed and maneuverability advantages to scuttle opposing cruisers.

Militia units have also adopted the Idris, in its lighter Idris-P variety. The Idris-P removes the spinal mount weapons platform found on the M, in exchange for additional cargo storage and a higher effective top speed. Idris-Ps frequently carry several light fighters and are used for antismuggling operations. It is not uncommon to come across an Idris-P laden with multiple prizes. The most brazen pirate clans are even known to target non-military Idrises for this reason!

The Idris-P patrol design is available in limited quantities on the civilian market, and it continues to rehabilitate Aegis’ reputation, having become something of a luxury item. Idris captaincy is considered a prestigious position and Citizens frequently compete to purchase the limited number of civilian craft the company can produce. An Idris isn’t just a luxury item: these crewed ships can effectively transport cargo, explore distant worlds or take on any other role, all while involving a larger crew than a Freelancer or a Constellation.

