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Scimitar-C1a Attack Fighter

The Scimitar-C1a is the most recent production model of the Scimitar Attack Fighter. The original A-model only saw limited production for evaluation and the B-model proved to be overly-complicated. It is a heavily-armed, long-range attack fighter meant to engage light capital ships.

The C was the first successful production model, simplifying the feed system for the gun, streamlining the hull to reduce mass and increasing the armament with an additional two launchers on the wingtips. It corrected the power generation issues of the B-model by completely replacing the entire system. Primary power is provided by a large SCM-W2400 reactor, while a smaller RCM-W800 reactor provides backup power. An emergency battery pack in the tail fin can allow some activity in the event of total reactor failure, a holdover feature from the A-model, whose unreliable reactors frequently scrammed. Lastly, tall dorsal and ventral solar panels can keep the battery running as well as provide power to the avionics.

The 1a variant of the Scimitar-C was originally designed as a squadron leader with additional sensors and communication gear, but it proved to be so successful that it entirely replaced the C1 in production. The main addition, aside from the electronics, is the installation of magnetic clamps on the wingtips to allow makeshift "docking" with stations and capital ships. Like all Scimitars, the C1a is constructed of light alloys to maximize mobility and will not react well to extensive battle damage.

NESN Scimitar pilots are trained to make a single, high-speed pass against capital ship targets, unleasing all of their missiles during the attack run and breaking off to avoid return fire as well as return to base to rearm. The exceptionally heavy firepower of even a single Scimitar poses a significant threat to capital ships without extensive armor and the wide spread of the launchers often provides hits even from poorly-aimed missile barrages. Scimitars proved vulnerable to more maneuverable enemy fighters, and their large profiles made easy targets in close-range dogfights, but the type is still sometimes employed in a space-superiority role.

This ship is entirely vanilla. I was trying to replicate the aesthetic of modern attack helicopters such as the AH-64 and Ka-50, at which I think it turned out rather successful. On that note: the upper cockpit is intended for the Pilot/Commander while the lower cockpit is set up for the Systems Operator/Gunner.