Vanguard-class

The Vanguard-class Frigate is a class of heavy frigates used by Trident Foundries, designed solely by Trident leader Jake Lancia.
== Description ==
The Vanguard is a parallel development with the Gladius-class Defence Frigate, and as such shares the same frontal hull, armour plating, plasma cannon ports and turret placement. Where the ships differ are the aft hull sections and energy missile outputs. The Vanguard has a much larger, more voluminous aft section than the comparatively small Gladius, and as such is able to fit more batteries than the Gladius, as well as carry more shields and thrusters.
== History ==
=== 2315 ===
Jake Lancia realised, in mid-2315, that the Trident fleet needed more larger ships if it was to survive in the changing times. Therefore he sketched some designs down, however none of these preliminary designs became a reality.
However in September, Jake revisited one of these designs; this was to become the Gladius. He also sketched up a version of it with a larger aft hull section, and decided he liked both versions.
Jake eventually began construction in October, after finalising the designs. The prototype Gladius and Vanguard both suffered the same problems; lack of power regeneration. Jake added a second battery to the Vanguard, to accompany the first; this largely removed the problem for the Vanguard, but the Gladius was too small to accept another battery, so it had been abandoned.
In November, both the Vanguard and Gladius underwent a major refit cycle, which included battery replacement to newer, more compact models that also produced more power. Therefore the Gladius was usable again, and the Vanguard had all of its problems removed too. Both vessels served side-by-side in the Trident fleet until the merger.
=== 2317 ===
In mid-November, Lancia began finally refitting the aged vessel for combat in modern times, to the still-modern Gen2 standard.
== Usage ==
The Vanguard-class has, in addition to its standard role as heavy frigate, been used in the following roles:
* Assault ship
* Command ship
* Fleet Support
* Testbed
* Diplomatic ship
Category:Ships
Category:Frigates
Category:Trident Industries
Category:Inactive Ships