U.S.S. Reliant MK I NCC-1864
Type I Miranda Class XI Cruiser
(Star Trek Movie Ship: ST II The Wrath Of Khan)
XON Gaming Item; Researched, Compiled and Written by Mark_XON
Extensive help from; Lee (fasaFAN) , Vctrsgma, Daniel Kurtz, desubateta

Source: FASA Federation Recognition Manual 1st Edition
Miranda (ex-Anton Class)

INTRODUCTION

CURRENT ASSUMPTIONS  |  VISUAL INSPECTION

CURRENT FASA WEAPON STATS  |  SUGGESTED ARMAMENT

NEW  CONSTRUCTION COMPONENTS (MKI  2272)  |  NEW WEAPON STATS (MKI 2272)

HOW THE GAME IS EFFECTED

REVISED FASA DESCRIPTION (circa 2287)  |  REVISED FASA DESCRIPTION (circa 2374)

DISPOSITION LIST (Master)  |  APPEARANCE BRIEF

REVISED FASA HISTORICAL NOTES (Circa 2287)  | REVISED FASA HISTORICAL NOTES (Circa 2288)

MIRANDA CLASS VARIANTS and SUBCLASSES  |  MIRANDA CLASS CRUISER and VARIANTS (TNG)

This write-up is for FASA players and FASA Groups, to help with there research by providing this information.
The entire idea of this write-up is to mesh FASA and Canon information together to produce consistent information. Remarkably FASA's then and Canon now seem to hold good standings together when the two sources are combined, regarding historical data.

Further reading with uncover that this write-up uses new construction components and some extended rules. These new rules are written up in a-way that should allow the standard FASA rules to be fudged or cheated to represent this new information, hence FASA-like. This allows them to work with particular fasa fan groups using standard FASA construction methods. Any FASA fan group using extended (homebrew fasa-like) rules, will have no problems.

First seen in the late 23rd Century era, Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan, then in Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home, Star Trek Generations, and in numerous variants on both Star Trek: The Next Generation and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Later, a 3D model for the Reliant design would be created and used by CGI companies like Digital Muse and Foundation Imaging, for inclusion into the spectacular battle scenes during the two major wars of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Many vessels were seen during the Dominion War and at least one was seen at the Battle of Sector 001 in 2373.

Source: STII Display - Reliant Bridge; Shields.
(Notice how inaccurate the display schematic is).

The FASA references used:

• #2302 Ship Recognition Manual: Federation (First Edition) pg27 and back cover
• #2214  Star Trek III: Sourcebook Update pg22
• #2302  Federation Ship Recognition Manual (Second Edition) pg12,13
• #2003A  Star Trek Starship Tactical Combat Simulator pg60

The information and images shown on this page are all geared towards the STII Ship - Standard Configuration (weapons rack). There is some info on the after thought of the Soyuz Variant Class, and some very vague information regarding the up rated TNG era Miranda or its Variants, which 'canon' calls Sub-Classes. There may be a few inconsistencies in this write-up but I hope to iron them out over time.

The Reliant Physical Model was designed by Mike Minor and Joe Jennings, and built by ILM for Star Trek II.
It was redressed and used several other times before the CGI Models where used in DS9 to replace the worn out studio model.

This assumption is based on the MKI Miranda Starship.

Source: FASA and ST Mechanics

The Weapon Systems on either side of the rack are Phaser Pods. A pod contains two types of weapons, a cannon assembly and a cluster of four custom single phaser emitters on the housing.

• The cannons are directly forward and aft firing only and are limited to a maximum of 1f and 1a at any time. Two forward Cannons may fire and hit at a 20,000km (2 Hexes) distance.
   
• The Phaser clusters fire port and starboard in a modified arc, there are no direct aft firing phaser emitters in this cluster.
   
• The torpedo pod fires forward from both bays as well as aft from the two rear bays, however they are limited to 1f and 1a at any time.
   
• The saucer has the standard phaser bank compliment, however they can not be powered at the same time as the Phaser Pods.
   

OPTIONAL WEAPON ADJUSTMENTS:

• Limit the Cannons to forward fire only.
   
• Give the Torpedo Pod the ability to fires forward from both bays as well as aft from the two rear bays.

OR

• Give the Cannons firing ability forward and aft, with 30 degree turret movement for port and starboard firing.
   
• Remove the Phaser emitters on the Pods houseing.
   
• Give the torpedo pod the ability to fire forward from both bays as well as aft from the two rear bays.

Source: STII - Reliant

The following are assumptions that adjust to the known.

FASA Refit from Anton To Miranda:
(FASA#2302 pg13) Places the start of refit from an Anton Class to an MK I Reliant Class(Miranda Class) on FASA Reference date 2/1410 converted to 2268(launch) and finished rollout in FASA Reference date 2/1507 converted to 2271(single). It also places the destruction of the Reliant in FASA Reference date 2/2206 converted to 2285(actual). (Dates are converted from the Design Consortium Date Conversion List, along side of the dates I indicate what column I used)

Canon Class Name:
Apparently the original designers of the Reliant intended for this ship to be a "Miranda" Class at the time of STII. In the TNG time period this class is known and revealed as a "Miranda" Class. By the time of TNG most of the remaining ships had been modified into other Variant Classes or up-rated Miranda MKIII+ models.

About the "Reliant" class name;
The use of the "Reliant Class" name by FASA was typical for any fan to grasp onto, fans tend to use the name of a ship as the Class name as well when there's no 'official' word. Just because the Reliant was the first ship shown doesn't mean that its the base class name.

About the "Avenger" class name;
For one I think I recall this name from years ago but it would have been something I would have disregarded, simply being that the ship class name seems too much related to the events of STII and pre-release titles for the movie, and then when the new info about the "Miranda" name came, it threw the Avenger name right out the door, and all its made up variant class names, and weird history.

Modular Design:
During the 2260's and early 2270's Starfleet invoked a modular design into several of there new equipment, such as shuttles and work-bees, this modular era effected the design of the Miranda Class in that several components can be readily removed and replaced with different parts for new configurations (This isn't seen on screen until the TNG era) It appears the top of the Tactical / Engineering Hull is buckled down. A Removable cover to the decks and machinery below. This would require the Rack to be removed as well to allow interchangeable modules. The area I'm referring to is located on the topside of the Saucer, Port and Starboard of the Bridge, Two Big Bolts / Levers that appear to lock the saucer in place.

Source: STII Movie and Home Models
Is this also the navigational deflector?

Through out the Miranda's life span, this class and variants have been used as Science Vessels, Cruisers, Supply Ships, Transports and Tactical Subjects in Strategic Battles. <insert official-cannon uses here>...

Visual Inspection

Witnessed Armament:
In STII what we see used are the Phaser Pods on the rack. Even though we can see that the saucer section has banked phasers in place, they did not fire, ever. 

The Pods appear to consists of a cannon and four single phaser emitters, 2 on top of each pod and 2 on the side of each pod (possibly refer to them as 2 split banks?) as they are not grouped like a bank.

The Phaser Pods are only seen firing forward, port and starboard. We also see some of the torpedo bays used on the Photon Pod; The port side fired forward while the starboard side fired aft. I would think that perhaps the Reliant was carrying Probes in the other bays. (Torpedo note of 2285: The aft torpedo when fired 'seemed' to seek the Enterprise Target as it appears to travel in an arc, rather than the typical straight path.)

This is the Enterprise Panel from STII

(This panel may been part of FASA's decision to continue to use the TOS Tri-configuration Phaser Banks, see later)

This is the Reliant Panel from STII

Reliant Bridge Fire Controls:
On the bridge of the Reliant the weapons console indicated port, forward, starboard...and aft for phasers. Also seen are the photorp triggers: Tube 1 and Tube 2 are the options. The Console is identical as the one on the Enterprise that is because the same movie sets where used; there is no special Miranda Fire Control Panel. One can only assume a separate switch is used to transfer standard fire control over to the Rack Phasers, or a separate panel is used. It should be noted that the correct Phaser Trigger was pressed in the effects shot, port phaser=port Phaser Rack. Behind The Scenes Note; The Reliant Bridge was the same Bridge as on the Enterprise, it was reconfigured and redressed for filming with different lighting, camera angles, and different seat covers.

Source: DS9 2374 USS Majestic
USS Majestic NCC-31060 Destroyed in the mission to retake Deep Space-9 from the Dominion in 2374.
"Sacrifice of Angels" - DS9.

TNG ERA:
In DS9's Final Battle a Miranda Class Ship "identical" to the Reliant, the USS Majestic  a CGI Model is seen firing 2 torpedoes forward. The angle of the camera blocked the launchers from sight, however the torpedoes where fired rather quick together suggesting both forward bays/launchers where used. There's no reason not to assume the Reliant was armed just as well.

1982 Effects: 
Are the effects inaccurately done or is this how it is; The Phaser Beam emits from the Phaser Cannons nozzle and at other times, from the outer housing of the pod at the four raised single phaser emitters.
(phasers are mounted in orange rectangles).

Source: STII 2285
You See here the phaser is coming from the side of the pod.

Source: STII  2285
The Pre-fire flash, as this is the 2nd "bolt"

Source: STII  2285

When the surface emitters fire there is always the pre-fire burst of a white flash just prior and during the beams initial projection. (don't let the running light just above the pod distract). In the third screen cap above the phaser doesn't line up with the emitter because the ship has moved forward.)
The cannons are only seen in use during the nebula...read below...

Source: STII  2285

At one point in the nebula the Reliant fires multiple shots from both Phaser Pods forward, we can clearly see that the beams came directly from the cannon nozzles. When the cannon nozzles fired the pre-fire wasn't present, it was contained inside the unit (there is no large burst, just a white barrel).

This is based on my TV recorded STII Movie observation. The beams appear Red in color as did the Enterprises. The effect for the phasers on both ships where nearly identical. They appeared to stream the same type of beam in appearance. Even when the cannons fired in the nebula, the beams appeared real similar. (note I didn't look into this all that well, you may want to review these effects on a DVD version of the movie to understand what I'm saying.)

Source: FASA#2212 Cover

FASA Weapon Stats: In FASA#2302 the weapon stats are only provided for the Phaser Pods on the crossbar and for the Photon Launchers. The separate cannon is 'worked' into the stats. FASA doesn't refer in its text to the Phaser Pods to be anything else but standard phasers(FH-10). Basically FASA just applied a Phaser Bank to each end of the rack either to avoid complications (such as the ones where trying to do) or based on their research. Note: A bank contains 2 weapons.

FASA Reliant Class (Model MKI)
    Weapons and Firing Data

• (FH-10) - Rack Phaser Banks
•     4 in 2 banks (two weapons in each bank)
•     2f/p, 2f/s
•  
• (FP-4) - Photon Launcher
•     2 bays
•     1f,1a (1f port side, 1a starboard side)
  

According to the converted FASA date (DC Component Timeline v2) the (FH-10) is a Phaser Weapon introduced in 2264. 2264 just seems to early for the Phaser Cannon, but then again FASA only considers the FH-10 as a standard phaser bank. No designation for the Weapon Pods. So what I did in the stats was to use the FH-10's on the pod housing and create a new Phaser Cannon weapon, and still stuck with the FASA converted date. See later below....

FASA did not provide stats for the Saucer Phaser Banks either. In FASA#2302 Ship Recognition Manual: Federation (First Edition) the text basically says that the saucer weapons where removed in some of the refit ships and left intact on others but unpowered.   In FASA#2214 STIII Sourcebook Update pg22 the text provided vaguely suggests that there are no more saucer weapons once the ship was refit from the Anton Class (a FASA ship), this is incorrect as there are phaser banks visually on the saucer. The result of the Reliant's performance in the STII battle scene is clearly FASA's source for there weapon stats. They used only the weapons that where seen used on screen. The saucer is from the Enterprise Class shipyards. So what I did was simply reproduced the Enterprise Phaser Stats. See later below....

(special note: FASAs 1st Edition Reliant Class Gamemaster Panels from the Klingon Box Set indicates 4 phaser weapons and FASAs 1st Edition Federation Recognition Manual indicates 4 phasers (2 banks of 2) that fire fwd and P/S)

Source: STII

Simply Adding The Saucer Phaser Stats.

Without adjusting the Phaser Pod stats we can add in the Saucer Stats, something like 6 in 3 banks, 2f/p,2f,2f/s in addition to the FASA 'Phaser Pod' stats, this of course is sticking with FASA's Standard Enterprise Class saucer armament or equivalent of the TOS Constitution Class Tri-Configuration. The Tri-Configuration consists of 6 phaser weapons mounted in 3 banks of 2 - one bank forward under the main dish, one to port atop the dish, and one to starboard atop the dish. (See; FASA#2214 STIII Sourcebook pg22 )

These stats do not include FASA's optional "Paired" banks rule. (See; FASA#2214 STIII Sourcebook pg22 )

FASA Reliant Class (Model MKI)
Saucer Weapons Update
    Weapons and Firing Data

• (FH-10) - Rack Phaser Banks
•     4 in 2 banks (two weapons in each bank)
•     2f/p, 2f/s
•  
• (FH-10) - Saucer Phaser Banks
•     6 in 3 banks (two weapons in each bank)
•     2f/p, 2f, 2f/s
•  
• (FP-4) - Photon Launcher
•     2 bays
•     1f,1a (1f port side, 1a starboard side)

Source: STII

This is where I have the suggested or theorized true weapon count and usage based on the above visual inspection of the Reliant model and the researched combat data in the STII movie.

These stats/new rules include FASA's optional "Paired" banks rule. (See; FASA#2214 STIII Sourcebook  pg22)

• 12 weapons in 6 banks(3 pairs) saucer mounted phaser banks (3 banks on top of saucer and 3 banks on bottom of saucer)
  - When the Phaser Pods are powered these standard saucer phasers are unavailable.
     
• 4 photon torpedoes (2 fwd, 2 aft) 1f and 1a at a time.

• 2 Phaser Pods:
  - When standard saucer phasers are powered the Phaser Pods are unavailable.
  - Phaser Pod weapons are only effective at short distances, this includes the cannon and housing emitters. (aprox 1hex?)-perhaps(1, 2, or 5 hexs?)
  
  Cannons (2fwd 2aft)
      -The Phaser Cannons can fire directly forward and aft.
      -Phaser Cannons can be fired practically simultaneously at a forward target. (?exceptional power cost?)
  8 weapons in 4 Phaser Banks(2 pairs) (4 port, 4 starboard)
      -The housing Phaser emitters can fire in a limited port or starboard arc only.
      -Technically these weapons are not Banked, but for simplicity sake we will use the standard 2 weapon bank ruling.
      - When the Phaser Pods are powered standard saucer phasers are unavailable.

(This is a WEAPONS ARC DIAGRAM not a FIRING ARC DIAGRAM)
This Chart is in addition to the standard FASA FIRING ARC CHART, that's normally used.

Components

PHASER CANNONS
In the need for a close proximity weapon that can do mega damage during dogfights, the Phaser Cannon was developed in 2264 around the same time as the FH-10 phaser was designed.

FC-1
Its a bulky energy expensive weapon that has a range of less than 10,000km (1hex). It required a starship to be fitted with special power gain equipment to generate and manage the requirements of the cannon. There where also starship wide power stability issues in some cases. The brutal power system generate high power peak plasma streams, although very inconsistent with large leaps from low to middle range during use, "Gapping Starship Haul holes may occur even if not intend" No known ships have continued to use this worthy but experimental model, past 2267. Mass for this weapon should be based on the mounting/housing along with the cannon itself.

FC-2
This model is the improved version more stable then the previous, mostly due to the fact the it was designed not to be fitted to existing ships but ships that where built to handle the full capability of the cannon. The power system was still brutal, still producing high power peaks, although it is still inconsistent with large leaps in the middle range during use, "Slicing of Starship Hauls may occur even if not intend" No known new ships where fitted with this canon, at least permanently. Designs of the ships where changed to remove the proposed weapon/class combination. Mass for this weapon should be based on the cannon itself. SS Requirements remain low since the Class ship would be designed for this weapon.

PHASER PODS
In the need to continue using the Phaser Cannon, and to out fit an under armed starship with more fire power, we have a combination cannon, phaser cluster and energy jumpers, in a single Pod (P-1).

(FC-2/FH-10/P-1)
The pod consist of The FC-2 cannon and the FH-10's. There is one cannon forward and one aft per pod, and four phaser emitters per pod, two energy jumpers included to work with all four phaser emitters.

One class, the Miranda MKI took advantage of the cannon and built a special Phaser Pod Housing to contain the Phaser Cannon in 2269 (FC-2). The housing allowed the cannon to be fitted to the ships power gain capabilities, allowing the standard FC-2 Phaser Cannon to fire at full capacity. Each Phaser Pod is consider one weapon, each firing forward with a converged fire distance of 20,000km or aft with a converged fire distance of 20,000km. Firing is either forward or aft at a time, the fired cannon must recharge and the ship must switch to the opposite emitter, on the opposite end.

As an added extra, the engineers built in a new 'fire cluster weapon system' on the housing of the pod, This new form of fire allowed the use of 'standard saucer emitters' along the energy jumpers on the housing while using the ships power gain/capacity capabilities to enhance the effect of the emitters. An old tech style power arching system was used to provide the emitters with more punch. It really was a hack job by re-routing  and converting power to the cannons rifle casing with two jumpers made of the same material extending upward near the emitters. This allowed the standard phaser emitters (FH-10) beam to be blended with the cannon produced power stream. When fired the extra power stream would arc from one of the two jumpers located between the phaser emitters, merging  the non focused power into a controlled phaser plasma beam making them almost as powerful as a cannon fire punch. You'll see a bright pre-fire flash when this enhanced cluster weapon system if engaged. (This 'technology' is provided to stay consistent with FASA's current stats and to explain why a standard phaser emitter would produce such a big flash as seen in STII) Overall This is a brutal weapons system, the arcing power and plasma stream produce high power peaks, sometimes unexpectedly "Slicing of Starship Hauls may occur even if not intend." The beams are normally inconsistent but the low range is short. Caution: firing this weapon at minimal distance near friendly ships could cause the beam to 'leak' and inflict damage on the unintended friendly, less than 2,0000km. (In game terms; this 'leak' wouldn't be part of the STCS game, perhaps for RPG use only?).

Firing through the rack side emitters is just like firing from the saucer emitters, weapon stats-wise, but at the higher power output and a limited firing arc (see WEAPON ARC diagram above.)

The new 'fire cluster weapon system' was designed as if each single emitter was unbanked and therefore allowed more control of the weapon system among other things. Several FASA fanatics suggest that this system could have been a prelude to the phaser array systems found on later starships, such as in the TNG era.

Top View of the right Phaser Pod on a Miranda MKI
Source: Avenger Plans / Modified Image

(FC-2/FH-??/P-2)

<insert info for weapon updates here>... This is where I would include text about the Pod version 2 update, provided in later years for Miranda MK updates.

The mass of the Miranda Phaser Pod system is part of the superstructure, only the cannon components are required for mass calculations as per FASA's standard construction rules. Super Structure Requirement is also low due to the Mirandas unique design. (note: does this work out as a good guideline? will this work out right??)

PHOTON PODS
In the need to provide torpedoes to starships without modifying the hull.

(FP-4/TP-1)
This unit is built with the (FP-4) launcher bays to be fitted inside a pod.  This automated torpedo system is an improved larger unit of the old systems that where originally fitted inside the lower saucer decks of a TOS Constitution Class. The Pods automated launch mechanism is unlike what they are on the larger more standard Full Photon Decks (2265-2277) on Cruisers. There more friendly bridge controlled and manageable but due to the smaller size of the pods capacity to carry torpedoes and the loading systems machinery, the load out is minimal when compared to a heavy cruisers standard Photon Deck.

The pods weapons consists of four bays, 2 forward, 2 aft. The automated loading system on a (TP-1) always loads the first bay (forward port) and then the second bay (aft starboard), then Launcher 3 (forward starboard) and Launcher 4 (aft port.) This criss-crossed set of bays only allows the weapons pod to firing only 1f and 1a at a time. (this backs up STII visual results and allows the standard FASA stats to remain intact while absorbing the evidence) The two sets of loading bays each run on the same systems; EX: If the pod was 'dual loaded' with two different types of torpedoes (or probes)  the bays would have to be loaded with the same type of missile, in pairs and criss-crossed from one another. If they require a special launch bay (other than FP-4's, the bays would have to be replaced in pairs. This particular unit the FP/TP-1 uses FP-4 launchers in all bays.   This new pod unit also houses most of the new fire control systems including targeting sensors and aggressive power management system.

About Load outs in the same Launcher Type;   For some reason Star Trek (or is it FASA, or is it the fans?) seem to feel that the entire launch bay must be replaced depending on the type of missile used. I think this would be correct to some extent, any variation of a probe or torps designed to fit a particular launch bay can be used without having to replace the entire components of the launcher (atleast post-TOS). Except for the obvious where the torp wouldn't fit in the bay or required a special bay to launch them, like what happened later with the Miranda in the TNG era.

Anyhow Its safe to assume that during the time of STII the Reliant was configured for one set of torpedoes and one set of scientific probes in its bays, using the (FP-4/TP-1) Weapons pod. This would be the Standard Fleet load out anyhow for a Miranda, on a scientific tour or mission. Special Note: Remember that I have now restricted the Torpedo Pods firing arcs 2f, 2a "1f and 1a at anytime"   or is it?  2f, 2a "1f and 1a at a time" to comply with part of FASA's findings of this weapon back in the early 1980's and to help not upset the Starship Combat Games and Construction Rules. However, come the TNG stats the ships newer torpedo pod will be able to have a 2f, 2a at any time firing ability.

Source: Avenger Plans / Modified Image

The following tables are still being determined, so its not finished:   suggestions?

I'm basically trying to base the weapon components on existing FASA weapons. Such as giving the Weapon Type names the appropriate designations that would show that the new components actually are using a modified design of previous weapons. With the Phaser Pod weapons I want to show that the pod weapons are actually just made up of the standard FASA rules and mechanics behind there existing weapons.

design note: the FC-2 component stats should be based on the FASA FH-10 phasers.

design note: the FH-10/P-1 component stats should be based on the FASA FH-10 phasers.

design note: the TP-1 component stats should be based on the FASA FP-4 torp launchers, if not the majority of the stats should be the same. Do we even need a new component for the photon pod?

The Final worked out, stats.

These stats include FASA's optional "Paired" banks rule (See; FASA#2214 STIII Sourcebook  pg22).

Miranda Class (Model MKI)
    Weapons and Firing Data

• (FC-2P) - Phaser Cannons; Pod configuration
•     2 in 2 pods (one weapon in each pod)
•     1f/a,1f/a single row of hexs, 1f and 1a at any time
•  
• (FH-10P) - Pod Phasers; Pod Cluster configuration
•     8 in 4 banks(2 pairs) (two weapons in each bank)
•     4p,4s weapon fires a limited port or starboard arc only
•  
• (FH-10) - Saucer Phaser Banks
•     12 weapons in 6 banks(3 pairs) - (3 banks on top of saucer and 3 banks on bottom of saucer)
•      2f/p,2f,2f/s at any time
•  
• (FP-4TP) - Photon Launcher; Torpedo Pod configuration
•     2 bays
•     2f,2a  1f and 1a at a time
  

(Note: the above images, including the official ones where touched up, since I did not have a better source to post)

Summary of how the Starship Game and Construction Rules are effected by this Write-up

Some gamers reading may find that the NEW 'rules' or guidelines set by this Miranda write-up should allow for better design of TNG ships and components. Ironic how a ship from the TMP era helps the TNG fan rule designs. :)

"Since the original construction rules never covered the situation of the vessels with the torpedo pod or the cannons, it's up to the group to create them, trying to make them as realistic as possible, but not letting it get too out of hand. Your additions (in this write up) are right in the spirit. "

"At this point, (with this write-up) it seems like it'll only take a little tweaking to fit them in. It would also allow the construction of a lot of the Jackill's vessels and other similar vessels online that would have been difficult or impossible to do before." - Vctrsgma

Terms used to represent various parts of this ship type:

• Weapon
  Commonly referred to by FASA as a single phaser emitter of a Bank (a bank normally contains 2 weapons).
   
• Phaser Cluster
  'fire cluster weapon system' A grouping of single phaser emitters (normally 2-4), not necessarily part of a bank or linked in fire control (at this point this write-up is using the standard bank rule for simplicity, even though I prefer unbanked single emitters).
   
• Phaser Cannons
  The forward or aft firing enhanced phaser. These are not PULSE accelerated.  (Part of a Phaser Pod).
   
• Phaser Pods
  Official Construction Term ; overall refers to all the rack phasers, cannon and cluster. Includes housing and components.
  .
• Rack Phasers
  generic term ; shipboard term. Crew, especially engineering and weapons ops refer to them as this.
   
• Rack
  The structure that supports the various pod weapons. Official Construction Term. (FASA's 'roll bar' term just wasn't doing it for me. Nor was 'crossbar'.)
   
• Arch
  The structure that supports the various pod weapons; a poor choice for one to use. The character wouldn't be familiar with this Ship Type.
   
• Photon Pod
  Official Construction Term.
   
• Torpedo Pod
  generic term ; alternate term.

Terms (Rules) used for the various type of ARC Diagrams

FASA's firing arcs have always varied in some of the Starship Combat games and they always seem to be difficult to understand or except unless you reverse engineer the mechanics behind it. Once you stomach all the info, one tends to settle for FASA's Standard FIRING ARCs. Although the STCS Manual doesn't explain too much about why arcs are the way they are, or how the Starship Stats would look like in a diagram when dealing with a particular weapon. I chose to devise a "WEAPON ARC" for the Miranda's unique weapon system. The choice for naming such a diagram came directly from FASA's constant referral of single emitters as 'Weapons', they also represent the weapon stats in the same terms. Anyhow the new diagram adds a FASA-like alteration to the rules without totally rewriting the firing arc rules.

• FIRING ARC DIAGRAM -  This is the standard game FIRING ARC, be it FASA's or a custom design.
   
• WEAPONS ARC DIAGRAM - This is a diagram that temporarily modifies the standard FASA FIRING ARC DIAGRAM when a special weapon is used.
   
• STARSHIP DATA DIAGRAM - This is a NEW diagram that is based on FASA's starship stats firing arc call designations such as f/p. (not used in this write-up)

FASAs Original Extended Weapon Rules and the Miranda's Write-UP Extended Rules

In the weapon stats you may run into some unfamiliar 'rulings' regarding when a weapon can be used/fired and if the standard firing arc is a modified one. Some of these rules are the result of FASA's other publications that may have included extended weapon stat rules, these are rules that don't require any modification to the starship construction rules. I have also used these rules in this write-up to remain consistent with FASA. My additions include slight variations of FASA's new extended starship data weapon stat rules (the "at any time" ruling), and are totally FASA-like.

• "weapon fires directly forward only" - This is a Fire Arc Restriction, temporarily modifies FASA's standard Firing Arc to a single row of hexs.
   
• "weapon fires directly aft only" - This is a Fire Arc Restriction, temporarily modifies FASA's standard Firing Arc to a single row of hexs.
   
• "weapon fires port or starboard in a limited arc only" - This is a Fire Arc Restriction, temporarily modifies FASA's standard Firing Arc; narrows the arc, most usualy only by one row of hexes.
   
• "at any time" - This is FASA's rule from the STIII Sourcebook when dealing with the "Paired Bank Rules"
   
• "at a time" - This is a Rate of Fire restriction. In some cases it also acts as a temporary weapon direction restriction. (based on the configuration of the weapon)

A New Rule
Note: is this really new or has it been printed in a fasa manual?

• "When one weapon system is powered the other weapon system is unavailable" - This is a NEW rule that basically doesn't allow for all weapons systems to be available at the same time. This is usually done with large weapon systems of unique design, or in a situation when much more fire power is available than resources and power. This rule also helps balance a starship in the game so it can't be unreasonable when compared to fully adequate and standard vessels with the proper resources.

Regarding Combat Efficiency Ratings

I tried to make this write-up with the least amount of alteration to a standard starship combat game, but I'm aware that some of these FASA rules and variation FASA-Like rules may wreck havoc in small portions on the construction methods. I'd like to smooth that out if possible.

Regarding Miranda MKI construction and launch time

I appear to have a discrepancy with some dates when compared to other sections of this write-up. The problem is the year of construction and when they where launched. I'm getting close, the dates I'm speaking about are 2268 , 2271 , 2272. The date of 2272 is FASA's MKI converted launch date. I'll be adding to this write-up that the Anton fleet wide refit was in motion before the Constitution plans, and once the Constitution plans where in motion, the new Anton Class fleet wide refit to MKIV was abandoned for more current technology.

REVISED FASA DESCRIPTION
(Circa: 2287)

Source: ?-A home Reliant Model Shot

The Miranda class cruiser is the refit version of the Anton class light/research cruiser. These vessels are used in areas where hostels or unknowns may be encountered but the research being performed does not warrant the use of larger vessels. This class is equipped with larger research facilities than the ENTERPRISE Class, however, and has large quarters for civilian research personnel. The large dual landing bays have enough room for various types of craft. During the 2260's and early 2270's Starfleet invoked a modular design into several of there new equipment, such as shuttles and work-bees, this modular era effected the design of the Miranda  Class in that several components can be readily removed and replaced with different parts for new configurations.

Though the original armament of the Anton class was hull mounted(3 banks of 2), the vessels proved too vulnerable. Starfleet felt that they needed a medium sized starship for defense and scientific missions with less upkeep then normal larger starships. Starfleet decided to use existing parts from the fleet. This widely used economy starship was built using components from the Enterprise Class refit project  and other current/experimental projects, the saucer and warp nacelles are derived from the Constitution refit project.  This modular match was a leap forward in practical but powerful starships.

The original USS Anton was destroyed, and with a year delay after designs where completed, On FASA Reference date 2/1410 2268(launch) the first ship brought into the shipyards to be prototype refitted was the USS Miranda NCC-1801  MKII Anton Class, though original plans where to refit her to a MKIV Anton class, as the ship was being dismantled for engine refit, Star Fleet Command decided to mount FWF-1 and FIE-2 instead of the FWC-2 and FIC-3 systems normally used on the MK IV Anton Class. This change in both warp and impulse systems created several exterior design changes including that of the Tactical/Engineering Hull that prompted Star Fleet to christen this a new class(Miranda  Class), this would be one of the first Starship Classes to be refitted with the new linear style Warp engines. The USS Miranda NCC-1801  was commissioned in ?2277 at Earth McKinley Station?. The first production starship, the USS Reliant NCC-1864   MK<?no data> Anton Class refit  to Miranda Class MKI  followed sometime later in the year of 2268(launch) after the USS Miranda was completed. The USS Reliant   was since destroyed in FASA Reference date 2/2206 2285(actual) during the infamous "Wrath of Kahn" engagement against the USS Enterprise. It was never refitted to MK II or MK III before its demise.

The Anton Class had suffered from lack of intense firepower during the Four Years War, in which 16 Antons were destroyed due to their inability to deliver massive blows to their targets. After the war, when public feeling was to disarm instead of rearming, no consideration was given to rearm research ships, but after the Klingon attempt to take Organia, public opinion changed and the problem of the under gunned Anton Class resurfaced.

During this time, In considering the refit and upgrade to more firepower, the USS Miranda  was further fitted with the 'roll bar' weapon pods, special weapon pods mounted on a crossbar above the hull. This mounting/modular method has proved more efficient for some designs, and gives the Miranda  class a much better field of fire and allowed the addition of photon torpedoes while preserving the massive onboard research facilities. This rack contains the phaser banks and the phaser cannon mounted on the outer edges, and the fore and aft torpedoes mounted centrally. The major components of the fire control system are also located in the central pod, thus giving additional room for personnel and work stations.

This relatively new ship class is a cruiser, which- like the Constitution class- has strong attack and defensive capability combined with extensive scientific equipment. Since the 2270s, ships of the Miranda class, named after Prospero’s daughter from the Shakespeare piece The Tempest, have served satisfactorily again and again in missions of most different kind. Impressed by their efficiency, Starfleet has produced variants of this type, among others the Soyuz class; however because of arising tuning difficulties with the control computer, the Soyuz vessels were taken from service after only eight years.

The new design overran the hull number series set aside for the Anton  class assigned for light cruiser duty. The USS Miranda, USS Reliant   as have all converted models retained there original hull numbers, but newly constructed ships have been given a new and different series of numbers because the Miranda   class proved to be quite useful as research support ships.

Since they officially entered service FASA Reference Stardate 2/1507 2271(single), Miranda Class vessels have undergone four changes, the first two fairly quickly. The first, upgrading to the MK II FASA Reference Stardate 2/1802 2274(single), saw an improved impulse drive system and the changing of the saucer phaser banks to the FH-11. The second change, refitting to the MK III FASA Reference Stardate 2/2204 2278(single), includes a more powerful set of  warp drive engines, which are actually lighter than several of the older styles still in use. All production of MK I and II models will be halted with the completion of the ships that are already in production, and new Mirandas will be of the MK III type. 2285(actual)

The Miranda Class MKII-MKIII cruisers are produced at the Morena, Sol IV, and Salazaar shipyards. The rate of production is currently 10 per year. FASA reference date 2/2209. 2285(actual)

Source: Cinefantastic Promotional Shot
Note: This model is the Small Battle Damaged Reliant. There where two shooting models one larger than the other. The Battle Damaged version was about a quarter the size of the larger version.

REVISED FASA DESCRIPTION
(Circa: 2374)

The Miranda Class starships continued service into the 24th century. The later more recent changes where MKIV and MKV.

The MKIV was intentionally a complete review of the ships current state. Any enhancements that could be done to improve the quality of the ship was done. The only thing that was hardly touched upon was the reliable power handler of the ship and rack union. Primarily more safety systems where added in the case of unexpected problems. The Phaser Cannon/Pod weapon system was also tweaked slightly with some improved components.

The MKV was a standard refit, updating equipment and ship structure/hull altogether. One change to the weapon systems was the Phaser Pod, it was overhauled, removing the single phaser emitters on the housing and reducing the cannons casing. The Cannon was then modified with a more directional Phaser heavy emitter. This used some of the saved power when the housing emitters where removed, the rest of the saved power was incorporated into the ships other systems. It turns out to be a more polished and contemporary weapon than the old brutal arcing power and plasma stream system. Although the old Cannons still have higher power peaks than the contemporary weapon, they are very inconsistent when compared to the lasted Pod Weapon.

The Miranda Class MKIV-MKV cruisers are produced at the ----, ----, and ---- shipyards. The rate of production is currently -- per year. FASA reference date
-/----.----(----)

FASA Continuity note;
The New Builds MK/Type where determined by FASA's NCC guidelines used for the Miranda Class, these guidelines appear to hold true for 'canon' incarnation:

1### digit where Anton original refits,
2#### digit are new builds of MKI or MKII
3#### digit represents the FASA mentioned MKIII (Make/Mark III is only mentioned, the FASA ship list had no MKIII's. FASA Reference date 2/2306 2287(actual). This is the Star Fleet Intelligence Command publishing date of the Federation Ship Recognition Manual 2ED. Although on the FASA's  "Time Line Of Active Service Duty" in the same book; the first MKIII was commissioned on FASA Reference date 2/2205 2285(actual).
3#### digit also represents MKIV and MKV Types.

Type MKIV would consist of refits of active ships after the TMP movies and before TNG.
Type MKV are refits that where made during DS9.  These where the CGI Models.
The assumption here is that there where no New builds, only refits in the 24 century.

*Even though FASA has provided incremental refits in the form of MK's The information I'm providing is limited to cataloging major leap refits only.  There for my MK's may actually be of a different value. This is do to lack of research and lack of detailed information on the other non-fasa updates and refits of the Miranda Class, and would be fairly redundant.

*Some Miranda Classes from the TMP era where Mothballed MKIII's and refitted directly to MKV upon returning to active service in the DS9 era.

*All Unknown NCC and Ships names are/will be FASA assigned material. The best available. I suggest any 'fasa reliant class' ship that is used in any of the FASA adventures or have some existing history be used first since I doubt I'll be doing that myself.

• U.S.S. Miranda; Class prototype,  Severely damaged; presumed destroyed(part of the Federation force to retake Deep Space Nine) DS9 "Sacrifice of Angels"
   
• U.S.S. Reliant; Destroyed by Khan in 2285 (Star Trek II: "The Wrath of Khan")
  Captain Clark Terrel * Commandeered by Khan Noonian Singh and destroyed in the detonation of the Genesis device.
   
• U.S.S. Saratoga NCC-1867;  Neutralized by alien probe (Star Trek IV: "The Voyage Home")
  
   
• U.S.S. Brattain; Starship found trapped in Tyken's Rift in 2367. All but one of the crew killed by REM sleep deprivation. (TNG: "Night Terrors")
  The Star Trek Encyclopedia says the ship's name on the model was spelled 'Brittain' mistakenly.
   
• U.S.S. Tian An Men; Part of Picard's Romulan Blockade 2367-2368 (TNG "Redemption, Part II") , 2368 (DS9 "In the Cards") 2374 (DS9 "Tears of the Prophets")
   
• U.S.S. Majestic; Destroyed during Dominion War in 2374  (DS9-6 "Sacrifice of Angels")
  
   
• U.S.S. ShirKahr; Destroyed by Cardassian orbital weapons platform Stipes, in 2374. DS9 "Tears of the Prophets"
  
   
• U.S.S. Nautilus; in late 2374 DS9 "Tears of the Prophets"
   
• U.S.S. Saratoga NCC-31911; See  [ VARIANT II ] section below.
   
• Unknown;  Seen (visually identified in widescreen format) ST4 "The Voyage Home" (STIV "The Voyage Home")
   
• 2 Seen TNG "Best of Both Worlds"  at   Wolf359   Source: TNG 2368 Federation Surplus Depot. For continuity sake, these are most likely MKIII's.
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
   
• 2 Seen TNG "Unification"  at  Qualor II surplus depot.(stock footage re-used from TNG: "Best of Both Worlds") For continuity sake, these are most likely MKIII's.
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  
   
• Unknown;  Seen at the end of STVII Generations during the TNG era; 2371 (STVII "Generations")
  (one note: The effects peoples didn't apply any visual effects to the two TMP era ships, warp engines and the sub-light to warp effect was a TNG era type, the linear warp engine color effect from TMP etc wasn't used.)
  
   
• U.S.S. Trial; Seen at Deep Space Nine during the Klingon invasion of Cardassia.  2372 (DS9-4 "The Way of the Warrior, Part II")
   
• U.S.S. Sitak; Severely damaged; presumed destroyed (DS9-6 "Sacrifice of Angels") Part of the Federation force to retake Deep Space Nine.
  
   
• Seen 7+ ships part of the Federation force to retake Deep Space Nine; outnumbered 2:1 (DS9-6 "Favor the Bold")
  Unknown; 
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  plus.............
   
• Seen 11+ ships part of the Federation force to retake Deep Space Nine. (DS9-6 "Sacrifice of Angels") (some of these are dual impulse decks?)
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  plus............
  
   
• Seen 3  ships part of the 9th Fleet stationed at Deep Space Nine.   (DS9-6 "You Are Cordially Invited")
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
  
   
• Seen 2 ships severely damaged; presumed destroyed.  (DS9-7 "What You Leave Behind")
  Unknown;
  Unknown;
   
• Seen part of a 27 ship fleet. (VOY-7 "Endgame")
  Unknown;
   

----End of Appearance Brief----

FASA's Reliant class registries
The Reliant class cruiser, existed in three distinct versions.
The first nine vessels were refitted from the earlier Anton class cruiser.
The remaining 77 vessels were newly built.

1863 Repulse
1864 Reliant
1866 Condor
1869 Gallant
1870 Reknown
1871 Invincible
1872 Daring
1873 Devastator
1874 Courage

REVISED FASA HISTORICAL NOTES
(Circa: 2287)

The USS Triumph was listed as missing when it failed to make scheduled reports to Galaxy Exploration Command. The official date that the ship was listed as missing was FASA Reference Stardate 2/1706 2271(actual), even though its last report was on 2/1705 2271(actual). The USS Regulator was dispatched to search for the missing vessel on Stardate 2/1707 2271(actual). The Regulator failed to make its scheduled report on FASA Reference Stardate 2/1712 2271(actual) and was also listed as missing. Both vessels were under the direction of Galaxy Exploration Command and were operating in rimward frontier areas. Subsequent searches have produced no evidence of the whereabouts of those two vessels, and all search activities were called of by FASA Reference Stardate 2/1805 2277(actual).

On FASA Reference Stardate 2/2301 2287(actual), the USS Accommadator returned from 3-year mission into the spinward frontier. Most crewmembers were given leave while the ship was to undergo scheduled maintenance. During the maintenance checks, the Accommadator was found to need parts that were not readily available and was therefore removed from its moorings inside the drydock and placed in an exterior mooring. On FASA Reference Stardate 2/2302 2287(actual), the USS John B. Goodings, a Liberty Class freighter, lost its directional maneuvering control system and rammed the Accommadator, causing excessive external damage and internal fires that could not be controlled for several days. The collision completely destroyed the damage control system of the Accommadator, and all surviving crewmembers were evacuated. The burning hulk was then towed away from the repair facility and allowed to burn itself out. When the ship was finally boarded by a damage control team, it was found to be totally unserviceable. The vessel was scrapped.

REVISED FASA HISTORICAL NOTES
(Circa: 2288)

Source: FASA#2212 Cover
(this being the most accurate drawing fasa had.)
(they probably got this profile from Paramount back then, which now appears in ST Mechanics)

Miranda Class VARIANTS and SUBCLASSES

[ VARIANT I ]
(no rack)

A FASA DESCRIPTION

(insert description here)...

APPEARANCE BRIEF

• U.S.S. Lantree;  [ Refit I ] Class 6 Supply; Contaminated with bio-virus, destroyed in 2365 (TNG "Unnatural Selection")
  Captain L. Isao Telaka * Destroyed by USS Enterprise to prevent spread of DNA virus

[ VARIANT II ]
(no rack, new pods, new "planetary sensor" weapon)

<Saratoga image>

A FASA DESCRIPTION

(insert description here)...

FIRING

PHASERS
The phasers on the Saratoga are emitted basically anywhere on or below the planetary sensor when seen. One can conclude that the effects people where completely unaware that day where the phasers shoot from. The effects provide proof that there where defiantly at least two banks and a maximum of four emitters seen firing from this area (insert more),

To rationalize this we can either say this ship is using 2 banks, or a Phaser Cluster / 'fire cluster weapon system' located on or just above the planetary sensor or even yet we can say the phasers where shooting from the saucers underside forward phaser banks. ( but without dismissing all of the effects and snds, one can see that there are at least 4 emitters and are equivalent to a TNG style starship weapon, rate of fire was also comparable (to array phasers), the evidence places the phasers  as TNG tech level.   All the other standard saucer phaser banks are also present, but not seen fired.

PHOTON TORPEDEOS
The captain of this ship orders "Load all torpedo bays, ready phasers" but we never actually see them fire photons or where from since the ship was destroyed before it could.  This was also a problem with the TOS Enterprise, there was no actual photon deck or ports, to solve that I took the Miranda's automated photon pod and extended its history back to the history I made for the constitutions small automated photon deck. So I'm going with the Constitution Class type automated photon deck, and placing it approximately in the same location as on a Constitutions lower saucer decks, just above the planetary sensor. I'm assuming there where a maxium of two small bays; The photons will approximately be the same size as what was used in the TOS series, but more powerful based on the TNG era tech level.

About 'Automated Photon Decks'
The information above will yet show another improvement in the 'automated photon deck' that I "placed" as what could have been on a TOS Constitution to explain why the deck would be so small.  So the history of this weapon system goes from the Constitution, to the Miranda Weapon Pod and then back to the Saratoga with an 'automated photon deck'.

APPEARANCE BRIEF

• U.S.S. Saratoga; [ Refit II ] Destroyed by the Borg at Wolf 359 in 2367 ("The Best of Both Worlds II", DS9 "Emissary")

The Saratoga was a reuse of the Reliant model built for Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, relabeled with new registry. This time around, however, the model was filmed without its upper rollbar modification, and two large outboard modules (referred to by production sources as 'sensor pods' based on there appearance). The ship fired phasers from an area usually identified as the lower sensor dome, rather than from any of the phaser emplacements built into the model.

[ VARIANT III ]
(second impulse deck, no torpedo pod)

<image>

A FASA DESCRIPTION

(insert description here)... The second impulse is for better sub light acceleration.

Soyuz (class variant)
(more info coming)

The Soyuz class variant was an after thought of the TNG series designers to represent a ship that was constructed back in the TMP era for using in the TNG series. For gamers and enthuses this gives us something more to play on and explore.

If you asked me the Soyuz Class Variant starship looks to be using non-trek-like model parts. Done by the same people that did the non-trek model component bashing for the Constellation Starship. I was surprised to find that these Miranda class variants (Soyuz Class) where actually 'built' before the time of the Constellation and before STII. Behind Scenes; The script called for a new starship type; Soyuz class but the model makers didn't have enough time to come up with a new model and so just stuck some 'sensor pods' onto the existing Miranda.

However these ships do back up the entire "modular design era" I seemed to observed in the early ST Movies and in canon  pre-TMP text.  But they didn't go about it how I would have thought, and this is mostly due to the fact it wasn't done by the original Reliant Model Makers. Even so these ships do exist, but the preliminary cannon suggestions for what components on the ship do are terribly flawed and totally not thought through so well.

The ship 'appears' to be heaver than a standard Miranda, and perhaps more power is required to operate ship, possibly slightly lower top ends and acceleration. I would guess the shields maybe beefed up a tad. -more- a science or scout ship featured enhanced weapons and shielding and lacked the science applications of the Miranda. Externally, the ship had enlarged aft cargo and shuttle bay sections as well as outboard weapon, deflector and sensor pods. These ships served primarily as border cutters for perimeter action and enforcement.

As of 2278, there were only five Soyuz-class ships in service, including the Bozeman and, presumably, the Soyuz. The last Soyuz-class ship was taken out of service in 2288, although the lost Bozeman was recovered, given a 24 century refit and was placed on active patrols from 2368 until 2373.

Source: TNG  ( 2278 ?new and last built? )
(These images came from ?a magazine? There identical views just scanned from different equipment)

A FASA DESCRIPTION

(insert description here)... An advanced variant of the Miranda-class. Featured a third enlarged aft cargo and shuttle bay section. Equipped with several large outboard sensor pods.

Source: TNG, USS Bozeman

APPEARANCE BRIEF

• USS Soyuz; not seen.
   
• USS Bozeman; TNG: "Cause and Effect", Disappeared near the Typhon Expanse in 2278 where it remained until 2368, trapped for 90 years in a temporal causality loop; commanded by Captain Bateson (who said he just left spacedock 3 weeks ago). The TNG era Refit Bozeman was in the armada to intercept the Borg incursion to Sector 001 in 2372  Mentioned in TNG: All Good Things..."; ST: First Contact. (Involved in task forces in "Star Trek: Generations" and "Star Trek: First Contact", Mentioned).

Source: TNG, USS Bozeman

Some Sites on the Reliant and the Miranda Class, Including Source Material for this write-up;

http://www.shiporama.org/miranda.htm -
http://www.neutralzone.de/database/Federation/StarFleet/Miranda.htm -
http://www.starshipmodeler.com/trek/tr_reliant.htm -
http://www.starshipmodeler.com/trek/ss_soyuz.htm -
http://www.memory-alpha.org/en/wiki/Miranda_class -
http://members.aol.com/FH1860/ - Avenger / Miranda Class Starship General Plans
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/steven.bacon/anton.htm - FASA material
http://www.sub-odeon.com/stsstcsmua/federation/anton.html - FASA material
http://www.sub-odeon.com/stsstcsmua/federation/reliant.html - FASA material
http://www.faqs.org/faqs/star-trek/ships/expanded/ - Canon Miranda Ship List included. May 14 2004
http://www-rnks.informatik.tu-cottbus.de/~tweimann/schematics/bridges_miranda_class.htm - Different Bridges
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0084726/trivia - STII Trivia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miranda_class_starship "Miranda class starship" at Wikipedia
http://www.memory-alpha.org/en/wiki/Miranda_class -  "Miranda class" at Memory Alpha
"Miranda class" at LCARScom.Net
"Starship Gallery - Miranda" at Ex Astris Scientia
"Miranda class" at Neutral Zone Starship Database
"Miranda class" by Stephen Pugh

Miranda Class Cruiser and Variants TNG
These are previously made fan stats.
I'm not sure if I'm going to base the XON stats on these or not. Its still up in the air.
It looks like all variants of the XON write-up will end up being MK types rather than separate classes altogether.
Anyhow the following is here for your consumption until I decide what to do with them.

Construction:

• kyphur:(4-21-2004) Used standard fasa rules. A Concept to explain the Soyuz Class and Saratoga Variants of Old Miranda Class (original file is an OCR PDF)
   
• Dan Stack: (Jun 1998) Used standard fasa rules. (based on Federation Ship Recognition Manual, FASA Corporation, 1989) (original file is text and html)

The Construction Data Table below is not the standard FASA version but an extended version to make room for outrages amounts of extra stats that normally would not be required for FASA's Tactical Starship Combat. The extra stats are more useful for FASA's Role Playing Starship Combat or just to have them in general :) Use this table if you wish for your starships, I put a lot of thought and comparison into it to make sure its universal with existing Fan DATA Sheets and that its FASA compliant.

kyphur - History
Miranda Class, Variants
Soyuz and Saratoga, Miranda Class Variants

Soyuz Class Border Cutters are operated by the Starfleet Border Service which traces its roots back to the United States Coast Guard. The historic tag "Cutter" is picked up from the early days of British Revenue Service, which actually employed cutter-rigged sailing ships. Retaining the Cutter designation keeps the present day service tied to their long tradition of coastal security, which is a point of pride for every crewman who has ever served in the Border Service.

The Soyuz Class has been described as very compact with lots of power and no frills. With extra shielding and the addition of Mega-Phaser Cannons, they are not meant for science applications like the Miranda Class. Basically they are just knotted fists and they pack a punch.

The elimination of all of the Science & Research equipment in the primary hull allows for the removal of the "roll bar" since the weapons can now be mounted directly to the primary hull. Additional superstructure used to re-enforce the hull left just enough room for two decks and a cramped bridge.

The Miranda MK-VIII represents the re-unification of the Miranda and Soyuz Classes as well as the end of a long serving reliable design. Due to advances in technology and the ability to build larger ships, Science & Research facilities were added while retaining the weapons mounts on the primary hull. Additional armor supplemented the increased shield capacity allowing the MK-VIII to survive against even larger opponents. The FP-9 Torpedoes and FMH-9 Mega-Phasers made sure she could stand her ground in a fight.

By the time USS Saratoga and her sister ships were being deployed, newer designs were covering the duties of the Soyuz Class, so while combat capable they were relegated primarily to exploration duties and interior patrol.

The Dominion War marked the end of active duty for the few surviving Miranda Class vessels. All remaining ships were re-assigned to Starfleet Academy as Trainers.

Soyuz Class
Source: unknown, I doubt the accuracy.

 
    Miranda Class MK-VIII Saratoga Variant
Source: unknown, I doubt the accuracy.

-END-