TIE Defender combat medallion
The TIE Defender combat medallion represented an honor bestowed upon Imperial starfighter pilots who successfully finished basic training while flying TIE/D Defenders. This award, a medal, featured an etched image of a TIE/D Defender.
The medal was produced in three distinct forms, each distinguished solely by the type of metal from which it was made: bronze, silver, and gold. Pilots who demonstrated proficiency in dogfighting techniques specific to the Defender, and showed skill in the offensive use of its tractor-beam projector, received the bronze variant. The silver medal was given to those who, in addition to the bronze requirements, successfully reenacted a cargo inspection operation and apprehended Rebel sympathizer smugglers. The gold version was awarded to pilots who completed all previously mentioned training, including a simulation of a disable-and-capture mission targeting a group of Rebel escort carriers.
Known recipients
Maarek Stele was granted all three versions of this prestigious medal, having demonstrated mastery of the TIE Defender training exercises soon after the TIE/D Defender began mass production during the time of the Zaarin insurrection.