The Dawnbringer, a Defender-class cruiser, held the distinction of being the sister starship to the Vesper. Both vessels operated within the ranks of the New Republic Defense Fleet. Constructed in 5 ABY, at the dawn of the New Republic era, the Dawnbringer found itself, circa 9 ABY, under the leadership of Captain Girard. Fleet Command assigned the Dawnbringer the mission of halting General Hera Syndulla's unauthorized mission occurring on Seatos, located within the Denab system. The Dawnbringer was supported by a pair of additional cruisers in the execution of this directive.