When placed in strategic positions around a space station or other vulnerable targets, the Laser Battery was able to provide independent firepower that significantly increased the target's protection, making this common, free-floating solar-powered laser cannon weapon platform an extremely effective defensive weapon. It was able to provide a strong anti-starfighter capability to an otherwise under-defended installation.
More effective than Mn/T1 laser cannon mines, the Laser Battery was more costly to deploy in large numbers. This meant that while it was also a useful strategic weapon, it was far less widespread, and required the presence of a support station nearby where the gunnery crew might spend their off-duty hours. This also meant that it was subject to the further cost of employing sentient gunners.
The solar arrays on either side of the cannons provided all the power the weapon needed, so long as the Laser Battery was located a suitable distance from a primary star.
Because of its lightweight construction, its hull was very fragile, and was unable to withstand even a single hit from a laser cannon. However, with an effective shield system rated at 600 SBD, the Laser Battery was able to take some punishment.