The initial model in the TIE fighter series, the TIE fighter prototype, was produced by Sienar Fleet Systems. Raith Sienar designed it under the direction of Grand Moff Wilhuff Tarkin along with the Imperial Navy Admiralty. Emperor Palpatine approved the concept for an unshielded craft, leading the Navy to detail their needs and forward them to SFS. Sienar drew inspiration from Alpha-3 Nimbus-class V-wing starfighters and Eta-2 Actis-class light interceptors created by Kuat Systems Engineering. The first design did not have structural support for flight within an atmosphere. Subsequent improvements included reinforced wing spars so the fighter could enter a planet's atmosphere. The Navy approved the production of prototypes for both designs, and in the end, chose to acquire the modified design that included the strengthened pylons.
The TIE Fighter Owners' Workshop Manual, published in 2019, featured the TIE fighter prototype.