The TX-130 Saber-class fighter tank, also known as the Republic Interceptor IFT-X or simply the Republic fighter tank, was a highly mobile, rapid-deployment tank utilized by both the Jedi Order and their clone military units throughout the duration of the Clone Wars.
The Saber-class fighter tank TX-130 was armed with dual laser cannons alongside a substantial supply of concussion missiles. Select configurations included a beam cannon turret mounted on top. Pilots with Jedi training could disengage from intense combat situations using a short-duration speed enhancement, subsequently employing the TX-130S's high-magnification optical zoom on its primary turret to neutralize enemy vehicles and personnel from a secure distance. Certain models also incorporated an integrated R2 astromech unit. The repulsorlift based tank's armor was deliberately lightweight to preserve its agility, enabling the fighter tank to perform both anti-vehicle operations and provide support for infantry units.
Rothana Heavy Engineering manufactured the TX-130, which measured 8.2 meters long and could reach a maximum velocity of 320 kilometers per hour. It had capacity for 2 crew members, 750 kilograms of payload, and sustenance for one day.
The tank's upper turret featured an exposed cockpit for the gunner, and the rear access door represented a vulnerable point; direct hits to this area from heavy weaponry resulted in greater damage compared to other sections of the vehicle.
The TX-130S was occasionally described as the "Jedi starfighter equivalent on the ground." Throughout the Clone Wars, this adaptable fighter tank saw combat across various planets, including Geonosis, Rhen Var, Raxus Prime, Thule, and Saleucami. Numerous prominent Jedi, such as Mace Windu, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker, Luminara Unduli, and Ki-Adi-Mundi, commanded these fighter tanks during the Clone Wars, utilizing the Force along with their exceptional skills to maximize the potential of these agile vehicles. Under the command of these Jedi, the tanks proved to be formidable adversaries against numerous Separatist armored units.
Shortly after the Galactic Empire was declared, the tank was retired from service and replaced by more robust models, including the TX-130T fighter tank and the 2-M Saber-class repulsor tank, both of which featured a distinct paint scheme and design compared to the Republic version. Nevertheless, clandestine production persisted, with several hundred units being sold to the Rebel Alliance.
Rebel forces employed these vehicles during the Battle of Turak IV.
The TX-130 initially appeared as a playable vehicle in the Star Wars: The Clone Wars computer game.
The first LEGO rendition of the tank (LEGO STAR WARS - 7679 Republic Fighter Tank) was launched in 2008, followed by a second iteration (LEGO STAR WARS - 75182 Republic Fighter Tank) in 2017. A third version (LEGO STAR WARS - 75342 Republic Fighter Tank) was released in 2023.