Challenger Squadron
| Challenger Squadron | |
| Unit | |
| Flagship | |
| Leadership | |
| Commander | |
| Deputy Commander | |
| Assignment | |
| Quadrant |
Gamma Quadrant |
| Mission |
Deep Space Exploration |
| Template:Squadron | |
Challenger Squadron is a formation centered around the starship Challenger, a Galaxy-class explorer. Formed in 2401 under the command of Fleet Captain Thomas Forrester, Challenger Squadron was assigned to explore regions of the Gamma Quadrant that were previously occupied by the Dominion. Instead of being assigned to one of the Fourth Fleet's task forces, Challenger Squadron was assigned directly to Fourth Fleet Operations.
History
Formation (2401)
In 2397, the Dominion withdrew from the Riada Sector. Eager to explore this previously inaccessible region of the Gamma Quadrant, Starfleet Science requested ships be assigned to this task only to be repeatedly rebuffed by Starfleet Command.
Challenger Squadron was formed in January 2401 at the direction of Fourth Fleet Operations with the intention of exploring the Riada Sector. Previously only able to study the region by long range sensors and telescopes, Challenger Squadron's mission would finally allow Starfleet to conduct an in-depth study of the sector while also building relations with the civilisations there who, for the first time in centuries, are no longer living under Dominion occupation and providing whatever support they can.
Leadership
2401 - Present
- Fleet Captain Thomas Forrester - Commander
- Captain Everett Ashford - Deputy Commander
Current Composition
Challenger Squadron is currently composed of three starships.
- USS Challenger - Galaxy-class explorer - Challenger is the flagship, tasked with the bulk of the diplomatic work the squadron will take on. For this reason it's diplomatic detachment has recently been beefed up under the command of Commander Matthias Bentley. With deck 12 given over entirely to medical facilities, the Challenger provides medical and counselling support to the entire squadron. In addition to commanding Challenger Squadron, Fleet Captain Forrester has also commanded the Challenger herself since late 2399.
- USS Higgs - Nova-class surveyor - The primary role of the Higgs is to undertake long term, in-depth surveys of the star systems in the Riada Sector. It's envisaged that the Higgs will spend several months studying the systems that, until now, Starfleet has only been able to study on long-range sensors or through telescopes. Commander Anastasia Matheson has commanded the Higgs since December 2400.
- USS Inverness - Excelsior II-class heavy cruiser - The Inverness has been a workhorse of Starfleet for decades and, following her retrofit, that is set to continue. The Inverness' task within Challenger Squadron is officially listed as logistical support. With a detachment from the Starfleet Corps of Engineers on board, the Inverness primary role is to provide engineering support to the squadron as well as assisting those worlds of the Riada Sector who require support. The Inverness will also return to the Alpha Quadrant several times a year for supplies and personnel transfers. Since 2400, the Inverness has been commanded by Captain Everett Ashford, who also acts as the Squadron's deputy commander.