A shield generator, known as a deflection tower, could be located on planets and massive space stations. These towers played a role in producing a broad deflection shield surrounding the battle station on the initial Death Star, constructed in 0 BBY, permitting only single-pilot starfighters to pass through. During the Battle of Yavin, Red Squadron prioritized the deflection towers as targets before proceeding with their bombing mission on the exhaust port. In addition to their shielding function, these towers also acted as power terminals.
The Galactic Empire primarily utilized deflection towers, opting for them instead of the ISD-72x deflector shield generator dome commonly installed on numerous Imperial vessels. In comparison to deflector shield generator domes, which were mainly created to safeguard capital ships, deflection towers occupied a significantly larger area. This expanded space facilitated stronger shields with a greater range than conventional shielding systems could offer.
Several of these structures were present on space stations like the Death Stars. Frequently, turbolaser turrets defended them.
