The Svelte-class Imperial shuttle functioned as a versatile transport vehicle employed by the Imperial Remnant. It was conceived as a more combat-oriented successor to the older Lambda-class T-4a shuttle used by the preceding Galactic Empire.
Drawing upon their expertise as a subcontractor, the Silviut Corporation engineered an enhanced craft that could perform extended voyages and provide support in space battles. Although not as effective as a dedicated starfighter, the Svelte-class shuttle possessed adequate agility and carried substantial weaponry for a vessel of its type.
Frequently called the "Vader-class" shuttle by Imperial aviators, its dark coloration evoked images of a beetle in space or the infamous Sith Lord.