The Battle Analysis Computer, also known as the BAC, was a sophisticated computer system developed for use on starships. Envisioned by General Jan Dodonna, its purpose was to furnish starship captains and fleet commanders with tactical assessments, statistical data, and strategic recommendations derived from live data streams. Given precise pre-engagement information, such as anticipated enemy force size and fleet resource availability, the BAC was capable of generating combat strategies and forecasting potential results. To improve a commander's grasp of the complex data generated, it could interface with an astromech droid to produce a dynamic holographic representation of the battle in real-time.
Originally, the BAC prototype was intended to be operational for the confrontation at the Second Death Star; however, unresolved software problems prevented its deployment. Luke Skywalker tested it on the Flurry during the Invasion of Bakura. While Skywalker found it beneficial, the evaluation also exposed several shortcomings, notably a propensity to generate perplexing or inconsistent outputs when faced with quickly evolving combat scenarios. Skywalker suggested incorporating a complementary module to the BAC, potentially an R2-series astromech droid, to aid in data filtering and to deliver clearer, more actionable advice. General Dodonna's team, which still existed despite the General's presumed death years prior, utilized Skywalker's insights from the field test to enhance the computer's software, planning to equip many of the Alliance of Free Planets' larger warships with the finalized BAC version.