MC40a light cruiser

The MC40A Light Cruiser, also known as the MC40a cruiser or just MC40a, was a class of light cruiser produced by Mon Calamari Shipyards at a cost of 15,500,000 credits per vessel. Measuring between 500 and 600 meters in overall length, the MC40a shared design and functional similarities with the MC80A Star Cruiser. Its clamshell-shaped keel mirrored that of the MC30C Frigate, but it was designed to be a more adaptable and versatile warship. The MC40a incorporated a class 1 primary and a class 15 backup hyperdrive, along with long-range sensors, a navigation computer, and sufficient consumables to sustain operations for two years.

Despite its dimensions, the MC40a boasted remarkably powerful deflector shield generators. However, its speed was considered subpar for a ship of its classification, being slower than many comparable vessels. To offset this, the MC40a incorporated a comprehensive suite of redundant systems to guard against system failures during combat and high-stress maneuvers, enabling it to withstand substantial damage. Its armament consisted of fourteen turret-mounted medium turbolasers distributed evenly along the port and starboard sides of its hull, two forward-facing concussion missile launchers, and eighteen medium ion cannons. Four of the ion cannons were positioned on the aft, another four on the bow, and five each were located on the port and starboard sides.

The MC40a also featured six heavy tractor beam projectors: one at the rear, one at the front, and two on each of the port and starboard sides. These weapons allowed the MC40a to engage similar-sized ships and even overpower smaller Star Destroyers. A common tactic involved using tractor beams to immobilize a Star Destroyer, allowing the MC40a to maneuver to the vulnerable rear of the enemy vessel.

In battle, the MC40a typically employed standoff tactics, using its turbolasers to bombard enemy ships from a distance. MC40as often engaged enemies head-on, maximizing the firing arcs of their weapon systems. In situations where the MC40a was outgunned, a standard strategy involved closing the distance to the enemy, allowing the MC40a to use its missiles, ion cannons, and tractor beams to immobilize the target and attack its weak points. This tactic relied on the MC40a's starfighter complement to provide anti-starfighter defense, as the MC40a often needed to divert its shields to protect against the primary threat.

The MC40a cruiser carried a complement of twelve starfighters and was manned by a crew of 3,723 to 3,770 officers, pilots, and enlisted personnel. Additionally, 650 soldiers, roughly equivalent to a battalion, were stationed aboard the ship.

The MC40a served as a command ship for smaller attack fleets, showcasing the strength, innovation, and creativity of Alliance Fleet shipyards by enabling small fleets to engage larger enemy forces. The MC40a also provided support for special forces missions, acted as a diplomatic escort, and functioned as a base of operations for starfighter squadrons. Overall, it was a highly versatile fleet support vessel.

Following the invasion of Mon Cala by the Galactic Empire and the subsequent escape of the Mon Calamari Exodus Fleet, the Mon Calamari and their warships became a vital component of the Rebel Alliance's naval forces. The MC40a cruiser eventually entered active service with the Alliance Fleet and participated in numerous engagements throughout the Galactic Civil War against the Empire.

The MC40A Light Cruiser was initially referenced in the 2020 Fantasy Flight Games sourcebook Starships and Speeders. It was formerly part of Star Wars Legends continuity, where it debuted in Star Wars: TIE Fighter.

• Starships and Speeders (Initial mention)
• " Starships of the First Order and the Resistance " — Star Wars Encyclopedia
• " Starships of the Empire and the Rebellion " — Star Wars Encyclopedia

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• MC40a light cruisers

• MC40a light cruisers