The Ferret-class reconnaissance vessel, typically referred to as a ferret, served as an intelligence-gathering platform. Republic Engineering Corporation developed it as a component of the New Class Modernization Program.
In essence, the ferret acted as an automated, uncrewed counterpart to the larger, manned Prowler-class reconnaissance vessel.
Each aspect of the ferret's design contributed to its capability to enter enemy territory surreptitiously. It was able to gather intelligence, and depart with minimal chance of being detected. The 28-meter hull was coated with sensor-negating materials, and a specialized baffled drive system allowed for sublight movement with a very small signature. Furthermore, the ferret's main sublight drive used chemical propulsion, avoiding detectable ion emissions.
Although lacking shields, the ferret carried a pair of concussion missile launchers. If the ferret's defenses were compromised, its droid brains initiated a sequence to wipe the onboard computers and activate a baradium charge. This would detonate its missile cache, resulting in the vessel's destruction.
Some of these vessels were modified to function as couriers for the rapid transport of one or two people, or crucial materials, to specified locations. The automated system handled all piloting tasks, and the vessel would remain near the destination, usually only long enough to transmit telemetry or messages to another communications station.
Vessels belonging to this class were assigned alphanumeric designations such as D-89, IX-26, and IX-44F.