The Mankvim-814's simple construction consisted largely of a reactor feeding power to a high-velocity ion drive. A magnetized rudder tilted the ion flow for off-axis thrust, while side thrusters aided roll and yaw adjustments.
The interceptor was armed with twin rapid-fire laser cannons and durable deflector shields for combat. The Mankvim-814 light interceptor seated one pilot, typically a droid pilot. The interceptor's aerodynamic wings, fitted with repulsorlifts, aided the overall maneuverability.
The Mankvim-814 was a bulbous, oval-shaped, short-range fighter created by the Feethan Ottraw Scalable Assemblies on behalf of the Techno Union on the planet Utapau. The Techno Union built these tiny, short-ranged starfighters on the planet from local materials. They were hastily constructed in the Grand Halls without any regard for Utapau's architectural heritage.
The model was later given to the Corporate Sector Authority, where it was used and produced in limited numbers.
During the Battle of Murkhana on the final day of the Clone Wars, they were used to combat incoming Republic forces.
During the Galactic Civil War, a number of spacers, used this type of craft for atmospheric travel. The wreck of a crashed Mankvim-814 was found outside of Nym's Stronghold on Lok.
While Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith Incredible Cross-Sections gives the maximum atmospheric speed of the Mankvim-814 as being 62,000 km/h, the later published Starship Battles Preview 6 gives it as being 1,450 km/h. It is possible that the latter is simply gameplay mechanics. Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith: The Visual Dictionary mislabels a picture of a scoop skimmer as a Mankvim-814 interceptor.
The Mankvim-814 was introduced to the MMORPG, Star Wars Galaxies, as part of Chapter 9 in April 2008, as a player instant travel vehicle.
- Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith Incredible Cross-Sections
- Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith: The Visual Dictionary
- Star Wars Battlefront II: Prima Official Game Guide
- Star Wars: Complete Cross-Sections
- Starships of the Galaxy, Saga Edition
- The Complete Star Wars Encyclopedia
- Star Wars: Complete Vehicles