Minetroopers, also known as tunneling underminers, were a specialized class of stormtrooper who received specific training to operate within mining environments. These troopers were deployed as security forces within the spice mines located on planets such as Sevarcos II and Kessel.
Minetroopers were equipped with unique tan-colored armor, featuring a significantly thicker, sealed bodysuit designed to protect them from the hazardous, spice-filled atmosphere. Their primary function extended beyond simply quelling revolts by incarcerated spice miners or combating rampaging spice eels; they were also tasked with safeguarding the mining equipment against damage and theft.
During the Galactic Empire's reign, spice was typically extracted through the use of slave labor. These slaves were owned by crime syndicates and spice lords. Upon the Empire's acquisition of the spice mines, minetroopers were stationed on planets like Kessel and Sevarcos II to ensure the efficient operation of spice routes and to swiftly address any potential disruptions.
The utility belts used by minetroopers bore a strong resemblance to standard stormtrooper utility belts, containing essential items such as rations, ammunition, grappling hooks, a Baradium-core code key thermal detonator, a compact tool kit, and a holster for their E-11 blaster rifle.
- " The Free-Trader's Guide to Sevarcos " — Star Wars Adventure Journal 2 (also reprinted in The Best of the Star Wars Adventure Journal, Issues 1-4)
- Star Wars: The Visual Dictionary (as "tunneling underminers")
- Star Wars: The Complete Visual Dictionary (as "tunneling underminers")