F-290A Cutlass

The is the UNSC's most advanced starfighter. Currently exiting the prototype phase, the Cutlass utilises technology reverse engineered from the Covenant, such as Impulse drives, Hyperscanners, and energy shields, and combines them with advanced stealth features, powerful weapons, and a miniaturized slipspace drive. To expensive for widespread distribution, the Cutlass instead serves as the UNSC's top fighter, with the few operational squadrons being reserved for the UNSC's best aces. 
==Description==
===History===
When development geared up on the F-218D/E Sabre, the Special Works division at United Aerospace began working on a concurrent program. A next generation fighter, intended to exceed the Sabre in every respect, regardless of unit cost. No expense was spared, at what was expected to be a technology demonstrator, probably for integration into Sabre's later variants. Instead, it became a sleek apex predator, a paradigm shift in interception and air-superiority. With an almost limitless expanse, the Cutlass began to take shape. With the first prototype finished, everything about it was deemed superior to it's cousin, the Sabre. Interested, the UNSC allowed United Aerospace to demonstrate it. In a ballsy marketing move, they had it engage in a mock air battle against a Navy Sabre, and a Navy Broadsword, winning a two on one fight with impunity. This moved from being a simple technology demonstrator, to being a serious contender for a UNSC fighter.
An order was placed for a small number, the cost being simply too excessive. However, the UNSC planned to outfit elite fighter squadrons in these revolutionary fighters, intending to create lethal 'point squadrons' for penetrating fighter attacks. 
===Armament===
===Airframe and Armour=== 
===Electronic Systems===
===Powerplant and Engines===
===Role===
===Crew===
==UNSC Comments==
==Notable Squadrons==
Category:UNSC Aircraft