The Norn

Description:
While testing the upper limits of both human and alien reflexes among starfighter pilots, scientists and engineers aimed to create a craft for military production that could serve as the pinnacle of speed in the starfighter’s evolution for biological pilots. Needless to say, the project was scrapped and considered a tremendous failure due to the fighter demanding far too much from even the most agile pilots. This made the prototypes unfit for mass, or even limited, production. In addition to its tremendous speed and maneuverability, the Valkyrja was later made capable of performing multiple “micro-jumps” mid-flight before actually taking a hyperspace route by adding an advanced hyperdrive system designed around regular implementation of the maneuver to the starfighter’s already unparalleled generator. This addition further pushed the boundaries of what the craft demanded from its intended biological pilots, resulting in the necessity for clairvoyant reflexes and an advanced astrological mind among any of its would-be pilots. Due to the numerous high-risk maneuvers these additions presented to anyone foolish enough to enter the cockpit, most major corporations disregarded the design. When engineers later attempted to remarket the Valkyrja as a potential drone fighter, it was deemed too expensive and elaborate to serve such a purpose, with drones lacking the creativity to make use of its advanced systems.

The Valkyrja sacrifices much to achieve such high speeds and maneuverability, primarily in the weapons department. With under half the armaments of the old TIE/D Defender and other, more modern, renowned space superiority fighters, the Valkyrja is more suited to acting as a stealth, scout, or escape craft thanks to the merits of its advanced counter-electronics package and sensors in addition to the craft’s speed. Its two stock repeating laser cannons provide it with potentially high damage yields, albeit limited to short bursts. While its other additional armaments barely allow it to effectively engage armed freighters and potentially surprise gunships, its primary combat role (if any) is as a dogfighter where its speed and maneuverability provide it with a distinct advantage.