A gunboat represented a particular variety of starship employed by the forces of the Galactic Empire. Among the gunboat classifications were the assault gunboat and the escort gunboat. A number of gunboats were put to use by an Imperial battle group situated within the confines of the Ilum system.
Within their fleets, political administrations residing in the Unknown Regions made use of gunboats. One example is the Lioaoin Regime, who made use of a specialized gunboat design, as well as the Nikardun Destiny which had the Nighthunter gunboat. The Watith species possessed a remotely operated type of gunboat.