The Beta-class assault shuttle represented a type of shuttle utilized by the Imperial forces, serving as a direct ancestor to the subsequent Gamma-class assault shuttle.
Its design incorporated a modular hull, comprised of a command pod for five individuals at the front and an engine section at the rear, both of which were permanently affixed. Conversely, the central module was adaptable, allowing for reconfiguration based on specific mission parameters. A module designed for spacetroopers could accommodate 40 spacetroopers, complete with dedicated launch pods and power couplers for recharging their spacesuits. In a standard troop transport configuration, it provided space for 68 troopers, along with their necessary gear. Furthermore, cargo modules were available, enabling the conversion of the ship for transport duties, or additional weapon pods could be installed to transform the Beta into a more formidable gunship. The standard armament of the Beta-class, when not configured as a gunship, included four laser cannons, a single concussion missile launcher, and a tractor beam projector. Beta-class assault shuttles possessed the capability to operate both within atmospheres and in space, and they also featured a limited hyperspace travel capacity, equipped with a Class 3 hyperdrive and a navigation computer capable of storing only three jump coordinates.
A significant drawback of the ship's modular design was the distribution of stress throughout its frame, originating from the modular coupling system. This necessitated a complete overhaul after approximately two years of service. This issue prompted the development of the Gamma-class assault shuttle, which featured a permanently integrated spacetrooper hold. Other roles previously fulfilled by the Beta-class shuttles were gradually assumed by other classes of space transports. The majority of Beta-class shuttles were phased out of service upon the introduction of the Gamma-class. However, they experienced a resurgence during Grand Admiral Thrawn's campaign against the New Republic, approximately five years following the Battle of Endor. During this period, they were primarily utilized as boarding vessels and troop transport ships.