The D-Wing Space Superiority Fighter, also known as the Phoenix, represented a departure from conventional Imperial starfighter designs. It was conceived by Elhon Tay of Tay Industries, who sought to address perceived shortcomings in the standard TIE/LN starfighters that many within the Empire had observed.
This fighter was substantially sized, measuring nineteen meters in length, and required a crew of two: a pilot and a gunner. Unlike single-pilot fighters, the D-wing included a Class 2 hyperdrive and concussion missiles. These additions increased the cost of production but also made it a potentially devastating asset when used alongside TIE fighters.
The primary responsibility of the rear gunner was to operate the rear-mounted Bi-Cannon and other weaponry. However, the gunner could also assume complete control of the aircraft should the pilot be killed or rendered unable to fly. Conversely, the pilot could operate all of the ship's weapons, allowing the rear gunner position to be occupied by a passenger if necessary.
The Phoenix's weapon systems were designed for modularity, enabling them to be adapted to a variety of combat roles. The standard configuration provided space for additional weapons or sensor equipment. Advanced materials were used in the D-wing's construction, resulting in a robust and durable aircraft capable of withstanding and inflicting significant damage.
Tay Industries created a single prototype of the D-Wing for demonstration at the Cynestra Space Craft Show (CSCS), held above the planet Cynestra on its seventh day during the Galactic Civil War. Aware that selling directly to the Empire would require proof of concept, Elhon Tay also arranged deals with independent escort services and planetary defense forces, anticipating their high combat activity. While initially resulting in losses for Tay Industries, Elhon was confident that the fighter's performance would attract the attention of the Imperial Navy, making his expensive advertising worthwhile. Rival starfighter manufacturers, such as Sienar Fleet Systems, sought to undermine Tay's efforts by dispatching agents to sabotage the prototype before its unveiling.
Rogan B.B. Cham, a HoloNet News reporter and covert Rebel operative, planned to cover the CSCS. Upon learning of the impending reveal of a powerful new starfighter, he contacted the Rebel Alliance. They arranged for Captain [Reeves] (/article/reeves) to meet with a Rebel cell on Yukka. Cham then transported the group to the CSCS aboard his ship, The Doobage, disguised as cargo.
The Rebel group's mission was to either capture or destroy the prototype starfighter. Lacking a detailed plan, they were forced to improvise, which led to complications when Grand Moff Torith, who was also interested in the fighter, arrived. Elhon Tay hoped to impress Torith with his creation, aiming for its adoption in the fight against the Rebellion. Conversely, the Rebel agents sought to eliminate Torith due to his oppressive actions against the growing Rebellion.
After successfully evading detection for the duration of the show, the Rebel agents managed to both assassinate Grand Moff Torith and steal the prototype starfighter. It remains uncertain whether Tay Industries produced any further D-wings. Given Elhon Tay's neutrality between the Rebellion and the Empire, it is possible that he later produced the fighter for the Rebellion after they prevented its acquisition by the Empire.
- " Operation Phoenix " — Valkyrie 1 (First mentioned) (Unlicensed)