Template:Ship Class Infobox The Type-27 Exoatmospheric Multi-role Fighter,[1] informally known as the Space Banshee, Banshee Fighter-Interceptor, is the Covenant Imperial Navy's standard space interceptor support craft.[2] It is a vacuum-sealed variant of the Type-26 Banshee ground support aircraft that is designed solely for exoatmospheric operations.[3][4]
Specifications
Design details
The Type-27 XMF is similar in appearance and design to the Type-26 Banshee ground support aircraft, though most of its components are wholly unique. It is equipped with two forward-swept canards which are designed to make the craft more maneuverable in zero-G space. Each canard sports two heavy plasma cannons; these cannons are elongated in comparison to those of the normal model, providing greatly increased range and firepower. A fuel rod cannon is mounted at the front of the fuselage.[5] The craft features an extended tail stabilizer which helps dampen tubulence during transitions in and out of atmosphere while docking. Unlike the standard Banshee model, the Type-27 XMF sports an enclosed vacuum-sealed cockpit.[4] These craft can be mounted on the hangar bay walls of Covenant warships, as well and on the undersides of vessels' hulls.[3]
The Type-27 XMF is effective against stationary weapon emplacement and EVA-equipped infantry, as well as in reconnaissance pickets. However, the craft is most effective when used in high-volume deployments. Deployment in great numbers can allow the Type-27 XMF to overwhelm heavier fighters such as the GA-TL1 Longsword interceptor, as well as escort ships, such as cruisers and frigates. Though the Seraph is used as the Covenant's primary fighter in single ship combat, the Type-27 Banshee provides invaluable screens and support, tipping many battles in the Covenant's favor.[4]
Operational history
The Type-27 XMF was first observed by United Nations Space Command personnel in 2527.[4] Numerous Type-27 XMFs assisted the Covenant in attacking the UNSC Epsilon Eridani Fleet and orbital stations over Reach during the invasion, particularly during Operation: UPPER CUT. During this engagment, numerous squadrons of Type-27 XMFs were used in conjunction with many of the Covenant's more powerful Type-31 Seraph to attack the UNSC refit station Anchor 9 and later to defend the corvette Ardent Prayer from UNSC boarders.[3]
List of appearances
- Halo: Reach (First appearance)
Sources
- ^ Halo Waypoint: The Universe - Tech
- ^ Halo: Reach, game stats
- ^ a b c Halo: Reach, campaign level Long Night of Solace
- ^ a b c d Halo Waypoint: Banshee Fighter
- ^ Cite error: Invalid
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