The YKL-37R Nova Courier represented a final attempt by Gallofree Yards, Inc. to enter the light transport market, an arena almost completely controlled by the extensive product lines of the Corellian Engineering Corporation.
The YKL-37R courier, being both smaller and more agile compared to Gallofree's GR-45 or GR-75 transport models, was outfitted with sufficient armaments to protect its cargo while executing perilous missions.
The YKL-37R, requiring a small crew, was designed with readily accessible systems to streamline maintenance tasks, needing only basic tools.
Gallofree's financial state deteriorated as their medium transport series rapidly gained a negative reputation due to issues with dependability and upkeep. Although Gallofree enhanced the initial medium transport, it proved insufficient, as they had already alienated a large number of prospective purchasers.
Driven by a need for income, Gallofree observed the achievements of several light freighter lines, most notably CEC's YT-series. The Nova Courier, conceived and manufactured swiftly, was the vessel Gallofree intended to utilize to rescue itself. With considerably reduced production expenses, the YKL-37Rs could be constructed on manufacturing lines, negating the requirement for costly drydocks and orbital shipyards, Gallofree aimed to reverse its declining situation.
The project was unsuccessful for a couple of reasons. Firstly, the expense of transitioning from the heavier production lines required for the medium transports to the lighter machinery needed for light freighters was immense. This exacerbated the second issue: the rumors circulating within the market that Gallofree was already a failing enterprise. The majority of "reputable" clients hesitated to invest in the Nova Courier given the widespread speculation that the company would soon cease to exist and therefore be unable to provide support.
In a desperate effort to generate revenue, Gallofree approached the Rebel Alliance with a final offer. The Alliance acquired a significant quantity of the medium transports at a reduced price, along with a number of Nova Couriers as part of the deal. Despite Rebel technicians generally holding unfavorable views of the medium transports, the Nova Couriers gained popularity among freighter pilots within the Rebellion.
Upon Gallofree's collapse, its remaining assets were liquidated, including all remaining YKL-37Rs. Subsequently, a number of these vessels found their way into the possession of smugglers, thieves, and pirates, who deemed the light freighter more than adequate for evading Imperial patrols. It was not uncommon for these compact freighters to seek refuge in the fringes of an asteroid field to evade TIE fighters and Customs patrol vessels.
Ultimately, the YKL-37Rs that successfully left the production line and entered space were well-regarded by their owners, although the absence of factory support complicated maintenance. Nevertheless, the freighters were easily modified, rendering them ideally suited for their role in smuggling goods for the Alliance.
The Nova Courier was introduced as one of the original three combat multiplayer ships for the Jump to Lightspeed expansion pack for Star Wars Galaxies, and is exclusive to Rebel ace pilots.