The Imperial Action transport functioned as an enormous dropship utilized by the forces of the Galactic Empire.
These Imperial Action transports were equipped with six engines. Two engines were fixed in position, while the remaining four could rotate to face downwards for vertical landings. For self-protection, the Imperial transport incorporated a pair of forward-mounted laser cannons. To assist in landings during low-light conditions, the transport had four spotlights to illuminate the landing area (two at the front and two at the rear). Each craft had four landing struts.
The internal capacity of the transport allowed for the carriage of a squad of stormtroopers, two or three AT-STs, and a single Imperial APC. Deployment of personnel and vehicles was achieved via a boarding ramp situated at the front of the vessel.
Beyond their role in transporting military equipment, the Empire employed these vessels for alternative purposes. One such purpose was prisoner transportation, as evidenced during the Rebel Alliance's rescue mission to extract the Imperial defector Tycho Celchu in 0 ABY, and again during the rebel raid at Bakura which occurred in 3 ABY.
These transports saw significant action during events such as the Battle of Ralltiir and the Imperial Attack on Yavin 4. Furthermore, they played a role in the Empire's attempt at capturing an Imperial officer who was defecting on Dantooine. Also, these transports were used in a trap set at Destrillion.