Republic soldiers, also known as Republic troopers, served the old Galactic Republic. They were created to combat various threats, especially those from the re-established Sith Empire after the Great Galactic War.
During the Great Galactic War, the Republic troopers were actively engaged in battles against the Sith Empire, which had emerged after a lengthy period of isolation. These soldiers participated in significant battles, including the Battle of Bothawui, where a unit served under the command of Jedi Master Belth Allusis. Allusis's heroic sacrifice against the Sith attack inspired the Galactic Republic and instilled hope within its people, as the losses inflicted on the Imperial Army were substantial. Another squad of troopers saw action in the Battle of Alderaan when the Empire launched an invasion of that peaceful planet.
The Treaty of Coruscant, enacted in 3653 BBY, established a fragile peace between the defeated Galactic Republic and the powerful Sith Empire. Recognizing the potential for renewed conflict, the Republic's military began developing specialized Special Forces units to counter the Sith's military strength. The selection process for these elite teams prioritized individuals with exceptional combat skills, unwavering discipline, and strong morale.
In previous times, the Jedi Order had fought alongside the regular military to protect the Republic. Over time, the Republic's military had worked with the Jedi in military operations and planning. However, following a rise in anti-Jedi sentiment after the Sacking of Coruscant, the Jedi relocated to Tython, which reduced their presence within the Republic. These circumstances led to an increased reliance on regular Republic forces to defend the remaining Republic territories.
The troopers were heavily involved in the Cold War and the subsequent Galactic War, often deployed in small teams to the most dangerous areas. Whether fighting alone or in groups, the troopers were a formidable force against the Republic's enemies. Their reputation was such that even Sith warriors feared them.
Almost three thousand years later, clone troopers replaced the Republic troopers as the army of the Galactic Republic during the Clone Wars.
During their service, special forces troopers had the opportunity to specialize in different combat roles.
One specialization that troopers could pursue was becoming a Vanguard. These soldiers entered battle wearing extremely advanced heavy armor and displaying unmatched fearlessness. They were among the Republic military's first and most effective line of defense. They were known as steadfast warriors who disregarded personal safety when entering the line of fire to protect allies or civilians. In battle, their tactical role was inherently dangerous, but Vanguards had an exceptional survival rate due to their expert defensive tactics and the advanced technology they used.
Another specialization was the Commando. These troopers were trained in advanced assault techniques and weaponry, charging into battle with massive blaster cannons to overwhelm their enemies with devastating firepower. Their powerful weapons allowed them to dominate the battlefield, where they could destroy enemy bunkers with precise strikes or repel Imperial assaults with concussive blasts. Commandos could devastate any enemy within range, and many of the Republic's greatest victories were due to the decisive actions of these troopers on the battlefield.
Republic military planners envisioned Republic troopers as the most advanced force in the galaxy, so they were trained and equipped to handle a wide range of enemies, environments, and situations. Since the Great Galactic War, Republic engineers had developed heavier and more powerful blaster rifles. This development led to a galaxy-wide trend toward more versatile weapons. Because these weapons required significant strength and skill to operate, they were rarely used outside of the military. Due to extensive combat in the Great War and the subsequent Cold War and Galactic War, the Republic military was constantly working to create more powerful blaster rifles each year.
Their protective armor was specifically designed to offer maximum protection and flexibility in various environments. It could withstand laser fire and bomb blasts.
Troopers assigned to Special Forces were known to be equipped with BT-7 Thunderclap rapid assault ships.
With the right training and proper use of their powerful weapons, Republic troopers were an elite and formidable force in combat.
In the MMORPG Star Wars: The Old Republic, players who choose the trooper class can specialize as either a Commando or a Vanguard, each with unique armor and equipment. The Bounty Hunter is the Imperial equivalent of this class.