The Guardian Mantis, the starfighter of the Vana Sage, possessed a distinctive system known as the ion encumbrance system. This system functioned by deploying diminutive, ion-charged projectiles, referred to as "tags," that adhered to opposing spacecraft. Upon attachment, these tags generated an ionization effect, effectively deactivating the enemy vessels' deflector shields. Furthermore, these tags could serve as a navigational aid when paired with nano-missiles.