KATSUMOTO-CLASS HAYABUNE
The Katsumoto class of hayabune, or frigate, was introduced in 2485 AT as part of the Botas Reforms. Following advances in Artifical Intelligence technology, the Kokubusho determined that the existing line of warships developed during the Trathiran Revolt was outdated and was far too crew-intensive. The Katsumoto class is named after Daimyo Katsumoto, an Imperial war hero who died during the Trathiran Revolt.
DEVELOPMENTThe contract to design and build the Katsumoto class was put out for tender in 2481 AT following the Battle of Yamsai. Onohama Shipyards were awarded the contract, in a reverse of policy for the Imperial Jade Navy which typically awarded weapons developers the contracts and then allowed them to subcontract industrial firms. The first vessels of the Katsumoto class were deployed to active duty in early 2486 AT.
SPECIFICATIONSAdvances in automation allowed the Katsumoto class to have a much smaller crew, requiring only 70 crew for optimal operation.
The Katsumoto class mounts a Type 85 Barrage Gun which allows it to engage capital ships and bombard planetary positions at range. It also carries four 912-LB railgun turrets to provide coverage against light-to-medium vessels, fightercraft, shuttles and missile-torpedo analogues. 7 IdaiTech Combination Vertical Launch Systems across the hull allow the launch of missiles such as the Atlatl MTM and the Kukulkan ISM. Finally, 150 Gyaku-Ko BDP emplacements provide short-range coverage against fighter craft, shuttles, corvettes and enemy munitions, providing a comprehensive network of fire to protect the ship. Auxiliary systems include an IdaiTech BAT-1 Fire Control Suite for the co-ordination of friendly assets, a KanshoCorp Tractor Beam and one IdaiTech Stormcloud TILT Generator. The Katsumoto class can carry a full platoon of marines, equivalent to 15 troops plus equipment, vehicles and supplies. It carries twelve Senjin sentokitai and a Yoshi kobaya as standard. |
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