The Nu-class was a faster, long-range supplementary design to the standard LAATgunship line, and shared similar design characteristics to the NR2 gully jumper of the Great Galactic War. The class had heavier armor and shielding than most atmospheric craft. However, the LAAT/i remained somewhat competitive with the Nu: while the shuttle could only carry 30 Clone troopers, the LAAT/i could carry that and four speeder bikes in addition. The shuttle also lacked the missile launchers of the LAAT/i. As a result, it wasn't a complete replacement for the affectionately nicknamed "larty".[2]
It was designed with fold-down wings, similar to fighters like the V-19 Torrent and later shuttle designs like the Theta-class and Lambda-class. Its boarding hatch was located at the front of the shuttle, in what could be described as the vessel's "chin". The Pilots chairs would lower them into the boarding area for them to leave the ship, and visa-versa. [7]
It would also appear to have been equipped with some form of tractor beam or magnetic clamp; as used to carry Anakin Skywalker's escape pod after he had crashed the Defender into the command ship of the Separatist blockade over the planet Ryloth.[8]
A Nu-class shuttle was used on a diplomatic mission by Commander CC-5869, his troops, Jar Jar Binks, and SenatorKharrus, who were en route to Florrum to the Weequay pirates' lair with a bounty of spice on board as a ransom for Dooku. While entering Florrum's atmosphere, they were shot down by the pirates. Kharrus died in the crash along with the two pilots. The shuttle was unable to take off again because it was broken in two.
A Nu-class shuttle was used to transport Anakin Skywalker's escape pod after he destroyed the leading ship blockading Ryloth with the Defender.[8]
At least one escort shuttle fell into the hands of the Imperial splinter faction known as the "hard-liners" stationed on the planetoidRZ7-6113-23. The shuttle was stolen by the bounty hunterKir Kanos during his escape from the hard-liners' ship storehouse.[4]