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Taiidan Light Corvette - Raachok
Mass: 500 tons
Firepower: 275
Armor: 450
Coverage: 30%
Maneuverability: medium
Max. Velocity: 375 m/s

The ancient raachok was a hurled weapon from the early martial period on Kharak. Light infantry used to carry a half dozen of these leaded darts into battle and then throw them in rapid fashion as they closed with the opponent. They were not the most effective weapon for inflicting injuries, but the enemy was forced to raise their shields to protect themselves from the hail of whistling projectiles, and so the infantry could often close and get in the first blow before the enemy had recovered. The name is apt for this class of Taiidani Light Corvette for two reasons. The first is purely cosmetic; the tapered shape of the light corvette is similar to the old weapon, and the maneuvering vanes on the back of the corvette fold up along the fuselage when the ship is docked, in much the same way the ancient dart's stiffened leather fins would fold up while the raachok was being carried in its special belt slot.

The second reason for the comparison is a more tactical matter. The light corvette is the first attempt by Taiidani scientists to create a multi-crew strike craft, and as such, it has a special problem. Without the speed of a fighter or the hitting power of a capital ship, the light corvette, even with its light, high-speed cannon, is relegated to harassing fire duty in most fleet contacts. The Raachok, like its namesake, is best employed as a dangerous distraction. In large actions this can mean a flight of Raachoks will close first to draw out enemy fighter screens and leave the main body of the opposing fleet open to a first strike from heavier ships. Going in first leaves Raachok crews facing incredible dangers, but receiving little of the glory.