The IRD starfighters, short for Intercept * Reconnaissance * Defense, was a swift and heavily armed starfighter used by the Corporate Sector's Picket Fleet.

CharacteristicsEdit

The IRD featured powerful engines, twin laser cannons, and the best pilot ejection mechanism of any contemporary fighter, but lacked a hyperdrive. As a result, the Authority IRD had to be transported by larger vessels such as the Marauder-class corvette or the Victory-class Star Destroyer.

HistoryEdit

The Corporate Sector Authority designed the Authority IRD fighter for the various missions of the Picket Fleet. Early Authority IRD models were not aerodynamic and performed so badly in atmospheric combat that many pilots refused to engage targets in atmosphere; this led to the development of the Authority IRD-A starfighter, which was deployed during atmospheric battles. The IRD-A had a carefully molded fuselage that channeled air through a vector stabilizer, enhancing both maneuverability and speed; it also mounted concussion missiles, making it a tougher opponent than its predecessor.

During Han Solo's days in the Corporate Sector, Solo and a group of outlaw techs fought against the new Authority IRD-A fighters, defeating them in early model Z-95 Headhunters; this victory was anomalous, however, and other, more successful battles encouraged the Authority to begin a full production run of the IRD-A.

ReferencesEdit

AppearancesEdit

• Han Solo at Stars' End (First appearance)
• Star Wars: X-wing Alliance
• Scourge

SourcesEdit

• Star Wars Encyclopedia
• The Essential Guide to Vehicles and Vessels
• Han Solo and the Corporate Sector Sourcebook
• Shadows of the Empire Planets Guide
• Rebellion Era Campaign Guide
• Galaxy at War
• Tempest Feud