Mankvim-814 light interceptor
The Mankvim-814 light interceptor, alternatively known as the Techno Union starfighter or the Rattletrap, served as a starfighter for the Confederacy of Independent Systems towards the end of the Clone Wars.
Characteristics
Its design was quite simple: a reactor powered a high-speed ion drive. To achieve off-axis thrust, a magnetized rudder deflected the ion flow, while side thrusters provided roll and yaw control.
For offensive capabilities, the interceptor featured twin rapid-firing laser cannons and strong deflector shields. A single droid pilot typically occupied the cockpit. Aerodynamic wings, equipped with repulsorlifts, enhanced its overall agility.
History
Feethan Ottraw Scalable Assemblies manufactured the Mankvim-814, a compact, oval-shaped, short-range fighter, for the Techno Union on the planet of Utapau. Using local resources, the Techno Union rapidly produced these small, short-range starfighters on the planet. They were hastily assembled within the Grand Halls without consideration for the planet's architectural legacy.
Later, the Corporate Sector Authority received the model, using and producing it in limited quantities.
During the Battle of Murkhana on the final day of the Clone Wars, they engaged incoming Republic forces.
During the Galactic Civil War, some spacers employed this type of spacecraft for atmospheric travel. A wrecked Mankvim-814 was discovered near Nym's Stronghold on Lok.
Behind the scenes
The Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith Incredible Cross-Sections states the Mankvim-814's maximum atmospheric speed as 62,000 km/h. However, Starship Battles Preview 6, published later, lists it as 1,450 km/h. The latter may simply reflect gameplay balancing. In Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith: The Visual Dictionary, a scoop skimmer is mistakenly identified as a Mankvim-814 interceptor.
The Mankvim-814 was added to the MMORPG, Star Wars Galaxies, as a player instant travel vehicle in April 2008, as part of Chapter 9.