Docking Bay

The Captain’s Yacht docking facility aboard the Enterprise is a specialized installation located on Deck 14 of the Stardrive, with the primary personnel access ramp situated on Deck 13. Unlike traditional Shuttlebays that house independent craft within an internal hangar, this docking structure is incorporated directly into the ship’s primary superstructure. When the yacht is docked, it forms a flush, integral segment of the starship's ventral hull plating. While the Century Class was designed for contemporary yacht models, the Enterprise utilizes a customized Waverider II Class craft known as the Galileo Galilei. Originally a Nova Class supplement, this specific yacht was modified to honor the service history of Commodore Targaryen. Because the Waverider II footprint is larger than standard specifications, the internal docking bay is significantly cramped, prioritizing high-capacity fuel umbilicals and magnetic clamps over general storage or maintenance walk-ways.

The Enterprise is engineered to maintain full operational readiness regardless of whether the Galileo Galilei is docked or deployed. When the craft separates from the mothership, the starship's Structural Integrity Field (SIF) and Inertial Damping Fields (IDF) automatically recalibrate their output. This adjustment is critical to compensate for the structural concavity left by the absent vessel, ensuring that the spaceframe remains stable and aerodynamic during high-speed maneuvers or warp transitions. Despite this flexibility, operational history suggests that crews are cautious about deploying the integrated yacht in high-attrition environments. Because the craft functions as a vital portion of the starship's outer hull, any severe damage to the yacht could lead to long-term structural compromises for the parent vessel. Consequently, command personnel often favor traditional shuttlecraft for high-risk missions to preserve the primary hull's integrity.

The deployment of the Galileo Galilei is a highly technical maneuver that is more complex than a standard shuttle launch. Since the yacht is physically recessed into the ventral superstructure, it must be deployed on a vertical axis rather than the horizontal axis used by Shuttlebays. This separation requires precise computer-controlled timing because the docking facility is located in close proximity to the Deflector Dish and sensitive surface-mounted sensor pallets. A manual launch is generally prohibited to prevent catastrophic contact with these critical systems. The automated sequence begins with the detachment of fuel lines and data umbilicals, followed by the release of heavy-duty docking clamps. As the inertial dampeners within the bay are deactivated, the craft falls away from the Enterprise while the starship's SIF immediately reconfigures to stabilize the exposed docking cavity.

As the yacht gains initial distance, its Impulse Engines engage to execute a preprogrammed escape vector. This maneuver moves the vessel sharply to either port or starboard to ensure it does not impede the Enterprise’s forward momentum or risk an accidental collision. Only after the yacht is entirely clear of the parent vessel's flight path is the autopilot disengaged and full flight control transferred to the pilot aboard the Galileo Galilei. Recovery follows these protocols in reverse, with the yacht aligning its docking sensors with the recessed bay and moving vertically into the structure under automated guidance. Once secured and the hull outline is once again seamless, the Enterprise restores its standard cruise-mode field configurations.

Landing Pad

The dorsal surface of the Century-class Saucer Section features four specialized landing pads engineered to facilitate the rapid arrival and vertical integration of large auxiliary spacecraft into the ship's Shuttlebay complex. These platforms are specifically sized to accommodate Federation Runabouts and various foreign diplomatic vessels which may exceed the standard clearance of rear-entry flight decks. By utilizing these dorsal pads, the Enterprise can process high-priority arrivals without disrupting the horizontal launch and recovery cycles occurring in the aft Shuttlebays, effectively creating a multi-axial traffic management system for the vessel’s support fleet.

When a spacecraft initiates its approach, it must first secure clearance from the Operations Manager on the Main Bridge. Once a pad is assigned, the pilot may choose to engage manual flight controls or allow the ship’s main computer to execute a precision automated landing. As the craft sets down on the platform — which sits flush with the armored hull — it is immediately secured via high-intensity magnetic induction. This magnetic binding is critical for stability, as it compensates for the lack of artificial gravity on the exterior surface and prevents the landing craft from bouncing or shifting during the initial contact phase.

Following touchdown and engine deactivation, a system of heavy-duty electrohydraulic lifts begins to lower the landing pad vertically. This descent carries the craft through the hull and directly into the cavernous interior of Shuttlebay 1 or Shuttlebay 2. As the platform moves into the ship's interior, massive exterior pressure doors slide shut above it, restoring the saucer’s structural integrity and allowing the bay to be fully pressurized. This vertical entry system allows the Enterprise to transition large vessels from the vacuum of space into a controlled maintenance environment in a fraction of the time required for traditional taxiing maneuvers.

Once the pad reaches its designated position within the Shuttlebay, a telescopic airlock shaft extends from the bay's mezzanine level to the spacecraft’s primary hatch. This creates a direct, pressurized conduit for visitors to disembark safely into the ship's internal corridors. Furthermore, because these pads deposit craft directly into the Shuttlebay areas, engineering teams have immediate access to the vessel for refueling, repair, or cargo offloading using the bay’s integrated crane systems and maintenance pits. This arrangement ensures that all auxiliary craft, regardless of their entry point, are centralized within the ship’s primary logistics and maintenance hub.

Shuttlebays

The auxiliary flight facilities of the Century-Class represent one of the most expansive and versatile installations in the fleet. Organized as a multi-deck operations hub, these facilities are divided between active Shuttlebays for flight operations and integrated Parking Bays for long-term storage and maintenance. Together, they provide a seamless environment for the launch, recovery, and sustainment of the ship's diverse auxiliary fleet.

The Enterprise utilizes three distinct Shuttlebays to maximize operational flexibility: Shuttlebays 1 and 2 are situated within the Primary Hull, while Shuttlebay 3 is located at the furthest aft point of the Engineering Hull. These facilities are managed by the Flight Deck Operations Officer from elevated control booths that provide a comprehensive view of the landing decks. This officer coordinates directly with the Main Shuttlebay Officer and the Operations Manager on the Main Bridge to authorize all vehicular ingress and egress.

To protect the internal environment, each bay is sealed by colossal triple-layered duranium exterior doors. During active flight cycles, an annular atmospheric containment field engages, allowing these doors to remain open for the passage of vessels while maintaining a pressurized, breathable environment for ground crews. The landing process is a highly automated sequence; once an auxiliary craft enters the 350-meter approach zone, precision short-range tractor beam emitters assume control, guiding the vehicle along a glide path. High-visibility yellow and white deck markings provide additional visual cues for pilots during emergency manual landings. Once a craft touches down on a 360-degree rotating landing pad, it can be quickly reoriented for its next mission or transitioned via heavy-duty vehicle elevators to the lower decks.

Located near the Shuttlebays, the Parking Bays serve as secure zones for long-term storage and deep-system diagnostics. While the Shuttlebays are optimized for speed, the Parking Bays are designed for comprehensive engineering support. A specialized contingent of technicians utilizes dedicated alcoves, maintenance pits, and mezzanine walkways to access every portion of a docked craft. These bays are outfitted with high-efficiency infrastructure, including dedicated fuel reserves and umbilical lines for rapid turnarounds. Because these enclosed workspaces often involve hazardous plasma emissions and combustion byproducts, a complex ventilation system is integrated into the overhead to ensure safety. Enterprise maintains a twelve-month inventory of spare parts and can even utilize shipboard replicators to manufacture complete replacement spaceframes in emergency scenarios.

Beyond aeronautical functions, the sheer volume of the combined bay systems allows them to serve as flexible multi-purpose spaces. During large-scale evacuations, Shuttlebay 3 can be rapidly converted to Class H, K, or L environmental conditions to support non-humanoid lifeforms. In extreme mission parameters, the Parking Bays can be transformed into temporary housing for thousands of refugees, field hospitals, or assembly halls. This multi-role capability ensures the Enterprise remains a premier platform for both deep-space exploration and large-scale humanitarian relief.

Shuttlebay Operations

The retrieval and deployment of auxiliary craft aboard the Century Class Starship Enterprise are managed through a sophisticated integration of tractor beam technology, atmospheric containment fields, and automated flight-control subroutines. These protocols ensure that the transition between the vacuum of space and the pressurized hangar environment remains seamless and safe for both the starship and the auxiliary crew.

Retrieval and Landing Sequence

The process for bringing a Shuttlecraft or Runabout aboard begins with a formal docking request transmitted to the Main Bridge. Once the Operations Manager grants clearance, the Enterprise computer interfaces with the incoming vessel's navigation systems to synchronize flight data. As the craft enters the 350-meter approach perimeter, short-range Tractor Beam emitters located near the bay’s exterior portal lock onto the hull to provide absolute stabilization. This automated guidance eliminates the risk of human error or mechanical thruster malfunctions during the final approach. As the triple-layered duranium exterior doors cycle open, an annular atmospheric containment forcefield engages across the aperture. This allows the bay to remain fully pressurized, enabling the deck crew to continue their duties without the need for environmental suits or time-consuming depressurization cycles. The Tractor Beams guide the vessel through the portal and onto a specialized circular landing platform in the center of the flight deck. Immediately upon touchdown, this platform rotates the craft 360 degrees to ensure it is already oriented toward the doors for its next mission. Only after the exterior doors are resealed and the ship's computer confirms the vessel is secured do the primary access hatches open, allowing passengers to disembark into the welcoming environment of the Shuttlebay.

Standby and Departure Sequence

Starfleet safety protocols require at least one auxiliary craft to be maintained in a "hot" standby status, fully fueled and prepped for immediate sortie. The launch sequence is initiated by the Flight Deck Operations Officer, who monitors the bay from an elevated control booth. Before departure, the Tractor Beam system moves the designated craft from its parking alcove to the central launch pad. While the crew boards the vessel, the deck gang performs final exterior safety sweeps and verifies that all personnel have moved behind the high-visibility yellow safety lines demarcating the flight path.

Once the pilot reports flight readiness, the internal containment fields activate and the massive bay doors slide into their recessed housings. The shuttle rises from the launch pad, initially propelled by a coordinated Tractor Beam "push" designed to clear the ship's immediate wake and any local turbulence caused by the starship's own movement. As the shuttle passes through the containment field and enters the vacuum, the computer transfers full flight control to the shuttle's pilot. The starship’s exterior doors then slide shut and lock, completing the cycle and allowing the Shuttlebay to return to its standard operational alert status.

Support Craft

Captain's Yacht

Also known as the Captain's Gig, the Captain's Yacht is a secondary craft that is used at the discretion of the Commanding Officer. While capable of a variety of missions, the Captain's Yacht is normally used during diplomatic missions or to escort diplomats without the need for a transporter.

Waverider II Class

Waverider II Class
Affiliation:	Federation Starfleet
Dimensions
Length:	28.8 meters
Width:	23.8 meters
Height:	6.2 meters
Specifications
Crew:	6 personnel 50 evacuation
Speed:	Warp 7.6
Armament:	Pulse Phaser Cannons
Defenses:	Deflector Shields Reactive Armor

The Waverider II Class was engineered by Starfleet to succeed the underperforming Waverider I, which had originally been developed as a supplemental craft for Nova Class starships. Commissioned in 2380, the Waverider II is now a rare sight in active service, yet the Galileo Galilei remains a prominent fixture of the fleet. This specific vessel has a storied history, previously serving under Captain Wilkan Targaryen aboard the U.S.S. Pennsylvania before its current assignment as the integrated Captain’s Yacht for the Century Class U.S.S. Enterprise-H.

Overview

The Waverider II Class represents a design synthesis of the original Waverider support vessel and the Talon Class scout. It was specifically designed to rectify the scientific and tactical limitations of its predecessor, providing Nova Class vessels with a more robust reconnaissance platform. While primarily a scientifically oriented vessel rather than a front-line combatant, it incorporates a Warp Propulsion System derived from Talon Class technologies and an enhanced weapons suite, allowing it to function as a formidable patrol craft. One of its most significant design achievements is its superior atmospheric maneuverability; the Waverider II utilizes high-efficiency aerodynamic surfaces and specialized aerodyne flight motors that allow it to operate within planetary atmospheres or the shallow depths of gas giants with greater stability than any other Starfleet design of its era.

Capabilities

Despite its age relative to next-generation auxiliary craft, the Waverider II remains highly capable for short and medium-duration interstellar missions. It boasts a warp range comparable to a standard runabout and is designed to support a standard crew of six for up to six months without resupply. The interior is noted for its exceptional "creature comforts," rivaling the luxury found in Galaxy or Sovereign Class Captain's Yachts. The habitable volume includes a forward flight deck, two modest staterooms, and a shared lounge suitable for either relaxation or formal diplomatic meetings. Unlike many cramped shuttle designs, the interior features aesthetically pleasing aesthetics, including a galley and comfortable crew bunks. A large aft compartment doubles as a combination cargo and laboratory space.

The true specialty of the Waverider II is its performance within planetary atmospheres. It achieves near-indefinite flight time in these environments by utilizing a specialized ramscoop built into its Impulse Propulsion System (IPS), which draws in reaction mass from the surrounding atmosphere. For aquatic or high-density gas operations, the Impulse engines and RCS thrusters are heavily shielded, which allows for limited underwater travel. Tactically, the yacht is defended by a reinforced deflector grid and eight alternating layers of keiyurium borocarbide and cortenium molybdenite hull skinning. It is armed with Pulse Phaser Cannons located along the edges of its nacelles, providing impressive firing arcs to assist its mothership during tactical operations if needed. In emergency scenarios, the yacht can be deployed from the Enterprise at velocities as high as Warp 7, utilizing its own high-efficiency warp coils and subspace field repeaters to manage a safe deceleration.

Waverider II Class Vessels Assigned to the U.S.S. Enterprise NX-1701-H
Name	Shuttlebay	Notes
Galileo Galilei	Docking Bay 1	Named in honor of the Human astronomer, physicist and engineer.

Runabout

Engineered to accommodate an extensive range of mission profiles, the Runabout functions as a versatile bridge between short-range shuttlecraft and full-scale starships, specialized for long-duration assignments independent of a mothership. This vessel class achieved widespread prominence in the mid-24th century following the discovery of the Bajoran Wormhole, where Danube Class units were deployed for exhaustive surveys of the Gamma Quadrant. A hallmark of the Runabout’s design is its modular midsection, which allows engineering teams to rapidly swap internal compartments to suit scientific, tactical, or transport needs. When not engaged in primary exploratory duties, these robust craft are frequently utilized as high-capacity tugs or dedicated mobile command centers for complex rescue operations.

Polaris Class

Polaris Class
Affiliation:	Federation Starfleet
Dimensions
Length:	24.2 meters
Width:	16.7 meters
Height:	5.9 meters
Specifications
Crew:	4 personnel 50 evacuation
Speed:	Warp 7.2
Armament:	Phaser Arrays Photon Microtorpedoes
Defenses:	Deflector Shields

The Polaris Class Runabout, engineered and constructed at Deep Space Five, represents the pinnacle of Starfleet’s auxiliary craft development as the direct successor to the renowned Danube and Yellowstone Classes. Commissioned in 2438, this latest generation of support vessel is currently seeing deployment across the fleet to supplement long-range, deep-space exploratory missions.

Overview

Named after prominent stars within Federation space, the Polaris Class features significant technological advancements that allow it to operate with a degree of independence previously reserved for small starships. Current operational doctrine involves motherships "dropping off" these runabouts while underway, allowing the Polaris to conduct exhaustive local investigations while the primary vessel continues on its own mission. This strategy is supported by a sophisticated Warp Propulsion System that grants the Polaris a six-month operational window before requiring refueling. Beyond its primary role in deep-space exploration, the class is designed for versatility, excelling in planetary patrol, scientific research, starbase logistics, and high-priority transport missions both within and beyond the Federation frontier.

Capabilities

As a true "jack-of-all-trades," the Polaris Class maintains the hallmark modularity of its predecessors but with significantly streamlined logistics. The central superstructure houses a mission-configurable compartment that can be swapped out for various prefabricated modules, including specialized labs for medical or scientific research, tactical centers, or logistics hubs. While previous runabouts required starbase facilities for these exchanges, the Polaris Class is designed so that a standard starship engineering team can swap a module in under three hours. This modularity extends to the exterior, where a dorsal mission pod can be attached to the hull to further enhance the craft's sensor range or tactical output.

The Polaris Class utilizes heavy automation, enabling a single pilot to manage all primary systems, though Starfleet standard protocols recommend a minimum crew of four for extended deployments. Despite its compact size, the vessel is heavily armed with integrated Phaser Arrays and Photon Micro-torpedo Launchers. These offensive capabilities can be augmented by the installation of a dedicated tactical internal module or a dorsal weapons pod, increasing the craft's defensive profile. With a sustainable top speed of Warp 7.2 for up to 18 hours, the Polaris Class provides Starfleet with an agile, high-endurance platform capable of defending and representing Federation interests in a variety of environments.

Polaris Class Vessels Assigned to the U.S.S. Enterprise NX-1701-H
Name	Shuttlebay	Notes
Sol	03	Named in honor of the Terran System star.

Rio Grande Class

Rio Grande Class
Affiliation:	Federation Starfleet
Dimensions
Length:	19.3 meters
Width:	11.6 meters
Height:	5.9 meters
Specifications
Crew:	2 personnel 20 evacuation
Speed:	Warp 6.9
Armament:	Phaser Arrays Photon Microtorpedoes
Defenses:	Deflector Shields

The Rio Grande Class was engineered to serve as Starfleet’s premier next-generation scoutship, specifically designed for low-risk assignments where the deployment of a full-scale starship would be impractical or diplomatically sensitive. Developed at the Bajoran Okana Shipyards, the class serves as a tribute to the Danube Class U.S.S. Rio Grande — the vessel piloted by Commander Benjamin Sisko and Lieutenant Jadzia Dax during the historic discovery of the Bajoran Wormhole in 2369. Despite being more compact than its predecessors, the Rio Grande Class has ascended to become a staple of Starfleet’s auxiliary fleet. In keeping with the traditions established by the Danube class, each vessel is named after a body of water from worlds across the Federation.

Overview

The Rio Grande Class carries forward a storied legacy of providing short-duration, long-range mission capabilities with minimal support from a mothership. Its refined dimensions have made it exceptionally popular among Starfleet Command as the craft can be housed within the shuttlebays of smaller starship classes without disrupting standard flight operations. This spatial efficiency led to the Rio Grande replacing the aging Orion Class for planetary and cultural survey support. While it possesses a smaller footprint than the Danube, it retains the hallmark of runabout modularity. The central mission compartment can be swapped with various equipment and supply modules—such as Cargo, Medical, or Science configurations—often by the crew of the parent vessel itself, bypassing the need for specialized starbase facilities.

Capabilities

Each Rio Grande Class vessel is powered by a high-efficiency Warp Drive capable of maintaining a sustained top speed of Warp 6.9, with an operational range that allows for three months of independent flight before requiring refueling. While the standard crew complement is limited to two officers, the ship is entirely self-sufficient and heavily armed for its size. Defensive and offensive systems are centered around a standard complement of Phaser Arrays and Photon Micro-torpedoes, supplemented by a well-stocked internal armory.

The craft’s versatility is further enhanced by a configurable Mission Pod mounted along the dorsal superstructure. This pod can be tailored to the mission profile, typically housing enhanced sensor telescopes for deep-scan reconnaissance or additional weapon hardpoints for tactical escort duties. By default, most units are equipped with a Stateroom module to provide superior sleeping accommodations compared to the standard bunks found in the aft compartment, ensuring crew readiness during extended-duration surveys.

Rio Grande Class Vessels Assigned to the U.S.S. Enterprise NX-1701-H
Name	Shuttlebay	Notes
Frost River	01	Named in honor of the Frost river on Andoria.
Hurutam River	02	Named in honor of the Hurutam river on Tellar Prime.
Monongahela River	01	Named in honor of the Monongahela river on Earth.
Na'ree River	02	Named in honor of the Na'ree river on Vulcan.

Dominion Strike Fighter

Dominion Strike Fighter
Affiliation:	The Dominion Federation Starfleet
Dimensions
Length:	22.5 meters
Width:	18.5 meters
Height:	5.1 meters
Specifications
Crew:	13 personnel
Speed:	Warp 9.2
Armament:	Photon Torpedoes Polaron Pulse Cannon Turrets
Defenses:	Deflector Shields

Originally considered as little more than manned drone ship, the Dominion Strike Fighter is a lightweight and easily replaceable spacecraft employed by the Dominion. Effective as a short-range attack vessel, the Dominion Strike Fighter is limited in range but makes up for it with an impressive tactical suite.

Overview

When initially conceived the Dominion Strike Fighter was based upon the hull design utilized by the Dominion Scout Ship brought into service during the Dominion War. Roughly the size of a Federation Runabout, the Dominion Strike Fighter's outward design is based upon the much larger Dominion Battlecruiser and was originally intended to perform scouting missions and light patrol assignments along borders with 'friendly' neighbors. As the Dominion began encountering more hostile species following the Dominion War, the scout design was modified to serve as a Strike Fighter.

Capabilities

When initially conceived the Dominion viewed the Dominion Scout Ship as little more than a drone; however, thanks to the influence of Odo the Dominion began efforts to increase the survivability of the Dominion Scout, which has bled through to the Strike Fighter. Similar to the Dominion Dispatch Vessel, the Strike Fighter incorporates Warp Field Coil Enhancers that allow it to maintain high Warp for longer periods than other comparable vessels. The Strike Fighter has been further enhanced with the ability to directly modify its Warp Field Geometry, allowing it to lessen the size of the Warp Field to make the Strike Fighter more difficult to detect at long-range. The Impulse Engines are also enhanced, allowing the Strike Fighter to accelerate at faster rates than its Dispatch and Scout counterparts.

As a Strike Fighter the vessel is well prepared for tactical operations and rivals some frigate type vessels in offensive capability. The primary weapon of the Strike Fighter are twin Polaron Pulse Cannon Turrets that are located on the sides of the forward prow of the Fighter that are comparable in devasting power to the standard Jem'Hadar Attack Ship. Two Photon Torpedo Launchers are also located in the forward prow, allowing the vessel to target enemy vessels with the projectile weapon. Shields aboard the Strike Fighter are slightly weaker than a Jem'Hadar Attack Ship, but are able to withstand heavy punishment.

Dominion Strike Fighters Assigned to the U.S.S. Enterprise NX-1701-H
Name	Shuttlebay	Notes
DSF-3751	Landing Pad B	Temporarily Assigned to the U.S.S. Enterprise.

Shuttlecraft

Shuttlecraft serve as the primary auxiliary workhorses of Starfleet, engineered to execute short-range and localized assignments that do not require the massive resources of a starship. Although they lack the expansive scale and long-term endurance of a Runabout, these vessels are fully warp-capable, allowing them to traverse the distances between neighboring star systems with ease. Their operational utility is centered on the efficient transport of cargo and personnel, as well as the delivery of away teams to planetary surfaces or orbital facilities. Due to their ubiquitous nature throughout the Federation, a standard lifecycle for these craft often involves a transition from active Starfleet service to civilian ownership; as the military fleet adopts newer, more advanced designs, the reliable shuttles of previous generations are frequently decommissioned and repurposed for private or commercial use.

Type 18 Shuttlecraft

Type 18 Shuttlecraft
Affiliation:	Federation Starfleet
Dimensions
Length:	9.5 meters
Width:	3.8 meters
Height:	2.9 meters
Specifications
Crew:	2 personnel 6 evacuation
Speed:	Warp 6.1
Armament:	Phaser Arrays Photon Microtorpedoes
Defenses:	Deflector Shields Reactive Armor

Developed and constructed at the Oakland Shipyards on Earth, the Type 18 Shuttlecraft was commissioned in 2402 as a direct response to the tactical lessons learned during the Borg invasion on the 250th Frontier Day. The vessel represents a significant technological evolution, merging the reliable twin-nacelle geometry of 24th-century starship design with 25th-century advancements in neural interfacing and defensive plating. Its continued popularity across the fleet is a testament to its robust engineering, but it has had its day in the sun. In late 2439 Starfleet Command ordered the Enterprise's complement of Type 18 shuttles cut to only two vessels from the original deployment of five vehicles.

Overview

The Type 18 was envisioned as the high-performance successor to the Type 9 shuttlecraft, specifically engineered to provide rapid interplanetary transit and away-mission support where larger runabouts might be too cumbersome. While the interior lacks the creature comforts of larger vessels, it prioritizes mission endurance and airframe survivability. The tritanium alloy hull follows a functional two-compartment layout, featuring a forward cockpit for the pilot and a rear cargo area equipped with bulkhead-mounted benches and equipment lockers for environmental suits and emergency supplies. Its reputation for extreme reliability has kept the Type 18 in active production for over three decades, serving as the primary workhorse for scouting and deep-space reconnaissance missions.

Capabilities

Propulsion is a primary strength of the Type 18, which utilizes a high-efficiency Matter/Antimatter Reactor and advanced Warp Coils to maintain a cruise velocity of Warp 6.1 for up to 24 hours. These coils grant the pilot exceptional control over the geometry of the warp field; by adjusting the field into a slender profile, the shuttle can minimize its subspace signature to evade long-range sensor detection. At sublight speeds, advanced impulse thrusters provide the agility once reserved for dedicated fighters. This maneuverability is further enhanced by an optional synaptic transceiver assembly, a neural interface that connects the pilot directly to the ship’s computer, allowing the vessel to be operated via thought-command for near-instantaneous response times.

Tactically, the Type 18 is far more formidable than its Class 9 predecessors. Its primary defense consists of a standard Deflector Shield array supplemented by next-generation Reactive Ablative Armor. When activated, a dedicated generator located behind the forward viewport envelopes the tritanium hull in a near impregnable shell, allowing the craft to withstand prolonged fire from heavy weaponry that would destroy standard shuttlecraft with ease. Offensively, the Type 18 retains the forward-mounted Phaser Arrays of the Type 9 but adds a ventral-mounted micro-torpedo launcher capable of firing Photon warheads. Additionally, the outer hull is equipped with modular equipment mounts and tachyon transmitter ports, enabling technicians to rapidly reconfigure the shuttle for mission-specific roles such as establishing detection grids or conducting high-resolution sensor sweeps.

Type 18 Shuttlecraft Assigned to the U.S.S. Enterprise NX-1701-H
Name	Shuttlebay	Notes
Willard Decker	03	Named in honor of U.S.S. Enterprise Captain Willard Decker.
Demora Sulu	03	Named in honor of U.S.S. Enterprise-B Captain Demora Sulu.

Type 19 Shuttlecraft

Type 19 Shuttlecraft
Affiliation:	Federation Starfleet
Dimensions
Length:	7.9 meters
Width:	3.1 meters
Height:	2.9 meters
Specifications
Crew:	2 personnel 6 evacuation
Speed:	Warp 5.7
Armament:	Phaser Arrays
Defenses:	Deflector Shields

The Type 19 Shuttlecraft serves as a versatile, jack-of-all-trades support vessel designed for short-range away missions and interplanetary transport. Developed at the Oakland Shipyards, the Type 19 is the newest member of the historic Type 6 and Type 8 shuttlecraft families. Despite its advanced systems and newer production date, it remains a secondary choice within Starfleet, largely due to the specific design compromises necessitated during its development.

Overview

Drawing historical inspiration from the Rockwell Class C shuttle utilized during the 2250s, the Type 19 was intended to become the new standard flagship shuttlecraft for the fleet. Visually, the craft follows the "box-style" geometry of the Type 6 and Type 8 shuttle, a design choice made to ensure compatibility with existing Starfleet maintenance facilities, docking ports, and recovery platforms. The goal was to produce a robust, modular vehicle capable of meeting diverse mission profiles, similar to how the Type 8 updated the Type 6 with more powerful internal systems while maintaining an identical exterior footprint. However, much like the Danube-class development, the Type 19 was forced to reconcile ambitious technical goals with energy limitations, leading to the omission of several intended features, such as a high-output long-range reconnaissance sensor package. Nonetheless, the twin Navigational Deflector Dishes intended for the sensor package remain in the final product.

Capabilities

The primary technical achievement of the Type 19 is its spacious and highly customizable interior, which offers a significant volume increase over the six-meter Type 6. The internal layout features a forward cockpit with a horseshoe-pattern control console for two pilots, leading into a large cabin area that can accommodate up to eight passengers on bulkhead-mounted benches. Access is provided through a rear-folding hatch that doubles as an entry ramp. Unlike earlier models that often relied on the mothership for transport, the Type 19 is equipped with its own dedicated transporter system capable of beaming four individuals concurrently. For planetary operations, the craft utilizes an atmospheric airscoop and hover-field antigravs, allowing it to navigate and land on a planet's surface with the same aerodynamic ease as the venerable Class C and Type 6 models.

The propulsion system of the Type 19 is an evolution of the Type 8’s Matter/Antimatter Warp Core. It utilizes inset Bussard Collectors and high-efficiency Warp Coils powered by dedicated reactors within the ventral nacelles. While the Type 19 can achieve high Warp velocities for emergency travel, its standard operational range is slightly less than the predecessors due to its energy profile. It is capable of short bursts of speed, but sustained travel at these velocities risks draining the field capacitors. If the energy reserves are depleted, the shuttle is forced to drop to sublight speeds for several hours to recharge, relying on its fusion-powered Impulse Drive and RCS Thrusters for maneuverability.

Defensively, the Type 19 features modular Phaser Arrays mounted on the Nacelle Pylons and caps, a configuration more advanced than the nose-mounted "chin-turret" Phasers. However, the energy draw remains a critical tactical consideration; firing these weapons in a combat situation places a severe strain on the central power core. Frequent use of the offensive systems can deplete the battery reserves, effectively disabling the Warp Drive until the systems can be replenished through the auxiliary Fusion Reactors. Despite these power management challenges, the Type 19 remains a sturdy and reliable asset for starbases and starships requiring a flexible personnel and cargo transport.

Type 19 Shuttlecraft Assigned to the U.S.S. Enterprise NX-1701-H
Name	Shuttlebay	Notes
Jonathan Archer	01	Named in honor of Enterprise NX-01 Captain Jonathan Archer.
Rachael Garrett	02	Named in honor of U.S.S. Enterprise-C Captain Rachael Garrett.
John Harriman	03	Named in honor of U.S.S. Enterprise-B Captain John Harriman.
Jean-Luc Picard	01	Named in honor of U.S.S. Enterprise-D Captain Jean-Luc Picard.
Va'Kel Shon	02	Named in honor of U.S.S. Enterprise-F Captain Va'Kel Shon.
Worf	03	Named in honor of U.S.S. Enterprise-E Captain Worf.

Type 20 Shuttlecraft

Type 20 Shuttlecraft
Affiliation:	Federation Starfleet
Dimensions
Length:	9.4 meters
Width:	3.9 meters
Height:	2.8 meters
Specifications
Crew:	2 personnel 6 evacuation
Speed:	Warp 5.1
Armament:	Phaser Arrays
Defenses:	Deflector Shields

Launched in 2437, the Type 20 Shuttlecraft was engineered to fulfill specialist roles previously reserved for high-endurance runabout vessels. Manned by a crew of two technicians, this craft is capable of rapid reconfiguration for both cargo and passenger transport, making it a staple of Starfleet’s Department of Logistics. It has effectively replaced the aging Type 17 shuttlecraft in logistical support roles throughout the Federation, providing a bridge between standard short-range personnel carriers and larger mission-scout vessels.

Overview

While runabouts have dominated long-range survey duties since the 24th century, Starfleet Command identified a persistent need for a smaller, more agile craft capable of handling similar specialist assignments. To address this, Starfleet commissioned the engineers at the Baikonur Cosmodrome (the renowned design team behind the Type 7 Shuttlecraft) to develop the Type 20. The influence of the Baikonur design philosophy is evident in the Type 20’s aerodynamic profile, which evolves the rounded, fluid curves of the Type 7 "teardrop" hull into a modern, unibody shape. This design lineage emphasizes maximized internal volume and fluid atmospheric handling, traits that made the Type 7 a favorite for planetary search and survey operations during the mid-24th century.

Capabilities

Functioning as the cornerstone of Starfleet’s next-generation exploratory fleet, the Type 20 long-range shuttlecraft offers a substantial upgrade in mission endurance and versatility over the preceding Type 19. The craft’s layout begins with a two-person forward cockpit, which introduces a significant design departure: the primary ingress and egress hatch is integrated directly into the forward bulkhead. This allows for a more streamlined boarding process and leaves the remainder of the airframe dedicated to a massive, mission-configurable compartment. Separated from the flight deck by a heavy-duty pressure door, this internal space evolves the high-capacity cabin concept of the Type 7, which was renowned for its ten-passenger seating capacity.

In the Type 20, this modular area is engineered for rapid adaptation to a wide spectrum of mission profiles. Standard configurations currently deployed include a high-volume cargo logistics bay, a personnel transport cabin featuring twelve seats and a self-contained lavatory, or a hardened Science Lab for conducting sensitive or hazardous research in isolation from the mothership. To further expand its operational utility, Starfleet is currently finalizing specialized ambulance modules for medical evacuation and tactical weapons compartments to provide localized defense on deep-space assignments.

The Type 20 is equipped with dual underslung Warp Nacelles featuring advanced variable geometry Warp Coils. This configuration allows for meticulous tuning of the subspace field, enabling the shuttle to reach a maximum velocity of Warp 5.1 and sustain Warp flight for up to 36 hours. Placing the engines in an underslung position optimizes the craft’s center of mass and provides superior stability. Despite these propulsion breakthroughs, the Type 20 remains susceptible to the energy management hurdles that historically plagued the Type 7, as the power demands of specialized mission hardware often compete with primary flight systems. To mitigate the risk of losing life support or propulsion during a tactical engagement, the shuttle utilizes dedicated internal power packs to drive its offensive systems independently of the main reactor. While it is significantly better armed than its Type 7 predecessor (which lacked standard weaponry and required specialized refits for basic phaser capability) the Type 20’s defensive profile is still specialized, typically necessitating an armed escort for operations deep within hostile or uncharted space.

Type 20 Shuttlecraft Assigned to the U.S.S. Enterprise NX-1701-H
Name	Shuttlebay	Notes
Robert April	01	Named in honor of U.S.S. Enterprise Captain Robert April.
James T. Kirk	02	Named in honor of U.S.S. Enterprise-A Captain James T. Kirk.
Christopher Pike	01	Named in honor of U.S.S. Enterprise Captain Christopher Pike.
Spock	02	Named in honor of U.S.S. Enterprise Captain Spock.

Shuttlepod

Shuttlepods are small craft that are typically assigned to short-term assignments within close distance to their mothership. Incapable of interstellar voyages, Shuttlepods typically lack faster-than-light propulsion systems and weapons and are used for close range transport when the Transporters are unavailable.

Type 25 Shuttlepod

Type 25 Shuttlepod
Affiliation:	Federation Starfleet
Dimensions
Length:	4.4 meters
Width:	3.3 meters
Height:	1.7 meters
Specifications
Crew:	2 personnel 2 evacuation
Speed:	Full Impulse
Armament:	Phaser Turret
Defenses:	Deflector Shields

The Type 25 Shuttlepod was engineered as the direct successor to the Type 18, serving as Starfleet’s primary next-generation vehicle for orbit-to-surface transfers. Designed for maximum efficiency in congested orbital environments—such as those found around Federation core worlds—this compact craft is intended to move personnel and small materiel between nearby habitats, planets, and space stations. Because it is optimized for short-range utility when transporter usage is impractical or hazardous, the Type 25 is highly dependent on its mothership or a local starbase for logistical support.

Overview

The Type 25 Shuttlepod is a joint project between the Tycho City Slips on Luna and the Tellar Consolidated Fleet Yards on Tellar Prime, prioritizing simplicity and ease of manufacture. It follows the lineage of the Type 15 shuttlepod, which was famously utilized aboard Galaxy Class starships for tasks involving the transport of unstable materials or navigating hyperonic radiation that would otherwise scramble transporter beams. While it features modernized subspace communications and updated computer systems, it remains a "sublight-only" vessel. Starfleet regulations typically restrict Type 25 missions to a maximum of 12 hours due to the limited internal volume, ensuring crew readiness and passenger safety.

Capabilities

The interior of the Type 25 consists of a single pressurized compartment, accessed via an airlock integrated into the aft bulkhead. In its standard configuration, the craft is operated by a single pilot, though a horseshoe-pattern control array allows for a second systems manager if the assignment dictates. The seating is highly modular with flip down passenger seats available in the small cargo area behind the primary navigational controls. Once docked via its universal docking port, the pod’s life support and reaction control fuel are automatically replenished by the parent vessel.

While Starfleet initially explored the inclusion of a compact Warp Drive, size constraints ultimately necessitated a reliance on a high-output Impulse Propulsion System. This system feeds two underslung Impulse Nacelles, powered by primary deuterium tanks and reinforced by sarium krellide storage cells. To compensate for its lack of faster-than-light speed, the Type 25 features superior handling within planetary atmospheres. It utilizes an atmospheric ramscoop (a design holdover from the 23rd-century Class F shuttle) to superheat intake air for sustained flight within a wide range of planetary environments.

For defense, the Type 25 is equipped with a single Phaser turret. To ensure that tactical operations do not overtax the primary propulsion core, the turret is powered by an independent battery system that requires recharging between missions. If the craft encounters a threat beyond its defensive capabilities, it relies on a powerful subspace transmitter to maintain a constant data link with its mothership, allowing for rapid extraction or support from the starship’s primary tactical arrays.

Type 25 Shuttlepods Assigned to the U.S.S. Enterprise NX-1701-H
Name	Shuttlebay	Notes
William George	03	Named in honor of U.S.S. Enterprise-B Captain William George.
Edward Jellico	01	Named in honor of U.S.S. Enterprise-D Temporary Captain Edward Jellico.
Thomas Johnson Jr.	03	Named in honor of U.S.S. Enterprise-B Captain Thomas Johnson Jr.
Demián Rendón	03	Named in honor of U.S.S. Enterprise-B Temporary Captain Demián Rendón.
William T. Riker	02	Named in honor of U.S.S. Enterprise-D Temporary Captain William T. Riker.
Elizabeth Shelby	03	Named in honor of U.S.S. Enterprise-F Temporary Captain Elizabeth Shelby.

Extravehicular Activity (EVA)

Extravehicular Activity (EVA) refers to any operational procedure where one or more crewmembers exit the pressurized environment of the Enterprise into the vacuum of space or a similarly hazardous atmosphere to execute a mission. The most frequent iteration of these operations is the "spacewalk," wherein personnel depart the ship to perform tasks directly on the exterior hull or within the surrounding space. These maneuvers are categorized as either tethered—maintaining a physical umbilical or safety line to the spacecraft—or untethered, which relies on independent propulsion systems. Regardless of the specific mission profile, almost all EVA operations necessitate the use of a specialized protective suit to provide life support, thermal regulation, and shielding against the lethal conditions of the external environment.

Cargo Management Unit (Workbee)

Cargo Management Unit (Workbee)
Affiliation:	Federation Starfleet
Dimensions
Length:	2.7 meters
Width:	1.2 meters
Height:	2.7 meters
Specifications
Crew:	1 personnel
Speed:	5,000 kph

In continuous operation since the 2250s, the Cargo Management Unit (CMU) — colloquially known as the Workbee — is an agile utility vessel designed to fulfill essential technical and logistical responsibilities. Despite its bare-bones architecture and small stature, the Workbee provides critical support for the assembly, inspection, and repair of starships and space stations. Its enduring legacy is a result of a design that prioritizes functional utility over internal amenities, allowing it to navigate the tightest spaces of a starship's superstructure.

Overview

With the rapid expansion of Starfleet in the mid-23rd Century, the Starfleet Corps of Engineers developed the Workbee to support the growing need for independent maintenance craft. The vehicle earned its famous nickname from the cautionary yellow hull markings—intended to ensure high visibility in busy shipyards like Utopia Planitia and San Francisco—which resembled the striping of Earth honey bees. While contemporary versions assigned to facilities like Deep Space 9 are often painted silver-gray, the iconic yellow remains the standard for most Starfleet construction and maintenance divisions. Structurally, the vehicle consists of little more than a pressurized driver’s cab and a compact engine assembly, maintaining a structural integrity that has allowed the design to remain in active service for over 175 years across ship classes ranging from the original Constitution to the Sovereign and Century classes.

Capabilities

The Workbee is a marvel of compact engineering, barely larger than the humanoid piloting it. The pilot enters the craft through a front-opening viewport and is provided with near-panoramic visibility through large transparent-aluminum windows. To illuminate dark work areas, the forward hull features a powerful light panel, supplemented by additional spotlights at the rear. Maneuverability is achieved through a series of helium-based Reaction Control System (RCS) thrusters positioned around the edges of the hull, granting the vehicle the agility required to maneuver through internal starship hatches or navigate complex construction lattices.

The primary utility of the Workbee lies in its modular equipment mounts located on the fore and aft sections. These hardpoints allow the craft to be configured for a variety of mission profiles, including towing cargo pods like a tug, utilizing manipulator arms for precision equipment placement, or employing welding and cutting torches for hull repairs. In earlier eras, these high-energy tools often overwhelmed the vehicle's tiny electrochemical fuel cells, limiting operational time to under 12 hours and forcing pilots to forgo onboard life support in favor of environmental suits. However, modern Workbees benefit from the miniaturization breakthroughs of the late 24th Century, incorporating compact fusion reactors that provide energy far in excess of original specifications. While these upgrades permit the installation of a small internal life-support system, technicians are still required to wear EVA suits to facilitate the transition from the cab to open space for intricate manual repairs.

Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Suit

Situations requiring crew members to exit the starship into airless, radioactive, or otherwise hostile environments are classified as Extravehicular Activity (EVA). These tasks range from detailed hull inspections and periodic maintenance to hazardous deep-space exploration and emergency damage control. To manage these high-risk operations, the Enterprise utilizes the most advanced protective technology in Starfleet's inventory, building upon a design lineage that dates back to the highly reliable and durable environmental suits introduced by the United Earth Starfleet.

Each suit is a highly integrated system comprising a form-fitted jumpsuit, a collar-mounted environmental unit, magnetic boots, gloves, and a helmet, all secured by airtight seals and strong clamps. The environmental unit, which dispense with the need for external pipes or tubes, extends down to the waist and houses the oxygen supply, gas exchange systems, and thermal and humidity controls. While standard mission duration is rated for up to twelve hours, the suit’s advanced autonomic life support controllers can manage emergency resources and enhanced recycling devices for up to twenty-four hours. To assist with visibility during missions, the suit's internal systems display an internal glow corresponding to the user's divisional color, while the exterior often features high-visibility tones or padding at major joints like the shoulders and knees to prevent snagging or tears.

A sophisticated internal computer processor serves as the suit's core interface, accessible via a control panel on the left wrist or through a helmet-mounted relay. This system allows the wearer to monitor suit integrity, manage communications, and record mission logs. The helmet itself is designed for maximum situational awareness, featuring a large primary viewing panel for forward sight and a smaller secondary panel on the top. For stability on the starship's exterior, the suit is equipped with built-in magnetic generators in the boots. A control terminal located on the hip allows personnel to adjust the level of magnetic force, enabling them to walk securely along the hull or switch the magnets off to move quickly.

For more complex maneuvers in open space, the suit can be fitted with an external thruster pack or a reaction control system (RCS). These units are securely connected via specific mounting points and can be jettisoned once their fuel supply is expended. When thrusters are in use, or when moving across the hull without magnetic assistance, a tether system is strongly advised to maintain a physical link to the spacecraft. For scenarios beyond standard work requirements, the Enterprise also maintains specialized garments in its emergency equipment lockers.