The etheric rudder functioned as a control mechanism for starfighters, enabling pilots to execute rapid turns without relying on attitude thrusters. This resulted in precise thrust vectoring and improved agility. Specifically, when coupled with 4L4 fusial thrust engines, the maneuverability was greatly amplified to the point where pilots compared it to piloting a T-16 skyhopper within an atmosphere. Prototypes of the etheric rudder were also implemented on Recon-Xs.
Timothy Zahn originated the phrase for his novel Heir to the Empire. He believed the term failed to gain widespread acceptance, leading to its eventual removal.