USS Achilles
USS Achilles (NCC-78250) is the lead vessel of the Achilles-class destroyer, assigned to the Fourth Fleet's Arcturus Squadron.
Namesake
In Greek mythology, Achilles was the best of the Greek warriors at Troy ("aristos achaion") and his refusal to enter battle, his fued with his compatriots, and his rage at the death of his companion Patroklos are at the core of the Iliad. Achilles was characterized as much by his speed, skill, and bravery as he was by his hubris and egotism.[1] A rendering of Achilles and Patroklos forms the crest of the Achilles's seal.
On Earth, ten warships of the United Kingdom's Royal Navy and one of the Royal New Zealand Navy were named after Achilles.[2][3] Four other Federation starships have borne the name Achilles, including an Echelon-class light cruiser that succeeded this Achilles in name but which was renamed when this vessel was returned to service:
- USS Achilles — Saladin-class frigate — NCC-551[4]
- 2261—2280 (Upcycled into NCC-5510)
- USS Achilles — Akula-class frigate — NCC-5510
- 2280—2340 (Retired)
- USS Achilles — Ambassador-class heavy cruiser — NCC-28410
- 2343—2370 (Retired)
- USS Achilles — Achilles-class destroyer —NCC-78250
- 2375—2380 (Mothballed)
- 2380—Present (Recomissioned)
- USS Achilles - Echelon-class light cruiser — NCC-97409
- 2401—2402 (Renamed Talos)