Bravo Fleet
Difference between pages "Gagarin Class" and "User:Woozamagoo"

Difference between pages "Gagarin Class" and "User:Woozamagoo"

From Bravo Fleet
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{{icons|bfc}}{{Specifications
{{icons|bfc}}
| image = [[Image:Gagarin.jpg|275px]]
{{Specification
| name = Gagarin
| image = [[Image:Sutherland class aftb.png]]
| affiliation = Starfleet
| displayName = '''''Sutherland'' Class'''
| role = Heavy Escort
| name = Sutherland
| dateEntered = 2400
| affiliation = [[United Federation of Planets]]
| expectedLife = 80 Years
| operator = [[Starfleet]]
| status = Active
| role = Heavy Cruiser
| type =
| precedingClass =
| succeedingClass =
| dateEntered = 2398
| productionEnd =
| retired =
| expectedDuration = 100 Years
| expectedRefit = 10 Years
| expectedRefit = 10 Years
| timeResupply = 2 Years
| timeResupply = 3 Years
| crewComplement = 350
| crewComplement = 900
| emergencyCap = 1,500
| emergencyCap = 12,800
| length = 492.2 meters
| civilians =
| width = 294.3 meters
| populationCap =
| height = 61.8 meters
| flightCrew =
| decks = 15
| passengers =
| length = 580 meters
| width = 520 meters
| diameter =
| height = 180 meters
| decks = 45
| propulsionSystem = Matter/Antimatter powered warp drive
| propulsionSystem = Matter/Antimatter powered warp drive
| cruiseSpeed = Warp 8
| cruiseSpeed = Warp 7
| maxSpeed = Warp 9
| maxSpeed = Warp 9
| emergencySpeed = Warp 9.9
| emergencySpeed = Warp 9.8 (12 hours)
| energyWeapons =12x Type-XII Phaser Arrays
| energyWeapons = *5x Type-XII Phaser Arrays
* 3 dorsal & 3 ventral (primary hull)
| torpLaunchers = Pod mounted
* 2 dorsal & 4 ventral (secondary hull)
*2 forward
| torpLaunchers =*4 forward
*2 aft
*4 aft
| torpPayload = *150 Photon Torpedoes
| torpPayload =*400 Photon Torpedoes
*150 Quantum Torpedoes
*200 Quantum Torpedoes
| shields = Multi-Layered Shielding System
| shields =Multi-Layered Shielding System  
| dockingfacilities =
| shuttleBays =3
| shuttleBays = 2
| shuttles = 8
| shuttles = 14
| runabouts = 2
| runabouts = 4
| fighters = Up to 12
| fighters =  
}The '''''Gagarin''-class heavy escort''' is a medium-sized, well-armed starship intended for frontline command duties. The first of these vessels entered service in 2400, to supplement and complement the ubiquitous [[Reliant Class|''Reliant''-class frigate]] with superior engineering support, command-and-control, and small craft capabilities.
| aux =
| msd =
| templatemode = nocats
}}


== Science and Exploration ==
The ''Sutherland''-class research cruiser is a large science vessel derived from the Nebula-class heavy cruiser. It is intended to carry large scale instruments into the field with large crews of scientific personnel; it is by far the largest dedicated science vessel in service. Compared to the ''Nebula'', many of its exterior features have been simplified and it is more lightly armed. These vessels can mainly be found making use of their vast scientific and research capabilities to perform extremely detailed studies of planets, celestial phenomena, anomalies and entire regions of space.
The ''Gagarin'' has similar exploratory and scientific capabilities to the ''Reliant''-class frigate, more than capable of performing missions across the range of Starfleet’s full mandate. Given their larger crews, though, they have more specialist departments onboard than on the ''Reliant'', and their greater small craft space can support larger and more capable auxiliary exploratory vessels.


Operating with a task group of escorts or frigates, a ''Gagarin''-class heavy escort hosts the senior officer present, often a flag officer, and coordinates not just any tactical maneuvers but provides the smaller ships with their orders. In turn, the ''Gagarin'' serves as a hub for relaying data back to Starfleet Science. As such, she possesses a very sophisticated bioneural computer system with processing power rivaling larger explorers. Much of this power is intended for intelligence-gathering efforts, but it can also be turned toward solving science mysteries.
=== Science and Exploration ===
While rarely being deployed at a long enough range to be on the truly cutting edge of space exploration, the ''Sutherland''-class excels at the follow up. Fully customisable sensor palettes are designed to house a comprehensive suite of Starfleet’s most advanced particle detection technology. From quarks to chronitons, photons to quantum filaments; if it’s there, the ''Sutherland''-class will sniff it out. As a result, the geo-imaging, cartographic and data collection capabilities of this class of ship are second to none.   


Long-range sensor systems aboard the ''Gagarin'' are above average for a ship of her size; the leading edge of the upper nacelle pylon hosts a panoply of sensor pallets, and the powerful main deflector system allows her to look deep into space for tactical and scientific purposes both.
Like its predecessor, the large internal volume of the ''Sutherland''-class makes it something of a “mobile starbase” in terms of scientific output. Extensive laboratory complexes and specialist analytical facilities are networked with bio-neural computing power measuring in yottaFLOPS. Again, like the ''Nebula''-class, there exists a large amount of vacant internal space available for upgrades, mission specific equipment and anything else that might be considered necessary for the wide variety of missions a ''Sutherland''-class vessel might find itself assigned to.


== Diplomacy ==
With a detachment of five runabouts and fourteen shuttlecraft, the ''Sutherland''-class has all it needs to act as a temporary base of operations for smaller manned missions. These range from observation of stellar phenomena from different vantage points to collection and cataloguing of bio-specimens during planetary surveys. Resources also exist aboard the Sutherland-class for the transportation of industrial replimat components planetside. While large, these replimats are limited to the production of field hospitals, emergency shelters, “duck blinds” and research outposts. The construction of any larger structures remains beyond the scope of a single vessel.  
While there are several vessels that would be preferable for diplomatic duties (such as the ''[[Obena Class|Obena]]'', ''[[Resolute Class|Resolute]]'', or ''[[Odyssey Class|Odyssey]]''), the ''Gagarin''-class heavy escort has enough diplomatic capability to handle light and medium intensity negotiations and conferences in a pinch. The same communications equipment aboard the ''Gagarin'' that makes it well-suited to coordinating patrol groups makes it a good choice for diplomatic talks that require significant input from Starfleet Command—especially helpful as the captains of these ships are not necessarily coming from diplomatic backgrounds. As a tactically-oriented vessel, though, it is not normally sent on missions early in the Federation’s relationship with a new species, as it could be seen as threatening.


== Engineering ==
The sheer size and complexity of the scientific systems aboard the ''Sutherland''-class have limited its ability to carry out long range independent operations. Although internal space and mission pods can be used for extra deuterium storage, the colossal energy requirements of maintaining the Sutherland’s scientific and computational prowess make its deployment to very far-flung regions of the galaxy both unlikely and inefficient. Starfleet has instead commissioned these ships to operate as massive mobile data collection platforms, regularly returning to starbase to disseminate information and take on new mission critical modules, materiel and personnel.  
Deceptively large, the ''Gagarin'' is a sleek, angular vessel that has a low profile from the front and rear to improve its evasive capabilities. The two large warp nacelles each have two sets of split warp coils, which improve efficiency and allow the ship to alternate between them to sustain high speeds longer than other ships of its size. The nacelles do not rise far above the body of the ship and are supported by two horizontal pylons each, which contain separate power transfer conduits for each set of warp coils, thus improving survivability and structural integrity. Two engines provide impulse power along the centerline of the ship.  


While the output aperture is smaller than on some ships of this size, the main deflector’s generation and focusing systems take up a significant amount of space on the keel of the ship. This added deflection capability improves the ship’s efficiency at high speeds.  
=== Diplomatic ===
The size of the ''Sutherland''-class makes it a viable option for hosting diplomatic functions, conferences and transporting large groups of dignitaries between destinations within Federation space. Such meetings and events often form part of Starfleet’s obligations under research sharing agreements negotiated between the Federation and other galactic powers. In such cases, the Sutherland-class may well find itself traveling beyond Federation borders in the name of scientific cooperation.  


The nearly-circular primary hull has a two-deck depression on the dorsal surface, allowing for the windows on decks five and six to face towards the center of the ship, decreasing the number of vulnerabilities on the widest part of the saucer section.  
Humanitarian aid is an area in which the ''Sutherland''-class excels. Reconfigurable space throughout the ship, along with mission pods containing hospital facilities, storage and emergency shelters, allow the Sutherland-class to assist with a whole host of mission types in this arena. Planetary evacuations, contagions, natural disaster and famine relief are all scenarios in which the ''Sutherland''-class would be a crucial responder.  


The complexity of the ship’s warp engines requires a larger engineering crew than would be expected for a ship of her size, which is supplemented even further with additional damage control, fabrication, and support teams. This extra person-power makes the Gagarin nearly as well-suited to engineering support missions as a utility cruiser, and she is especially well-suited to engineering missions in dangerous areas.  
It is uncommon, but not unheard of for ships of the Sutherland-class to engage in first contact missions. The most likely scenario here would be following on from initial discoveries made by scout ships without the means to establish meaningful diplomatic connections alone, such as ''Nova'' or ''Rhode'' ''Island''-class vessels. More likely would be the involvement of the ''Sutherland''-class with second contact missions with civilisations known to be peaceful, possessing similar cultural interests to the Federation. In this situation, the Sutherland-class acts as an ideal showcase of Federation science and research technology.


With three shuttle bays, the ''Gagarin'' can handle a half-dozen runabouts in addition to a standard complement of small craft. The aft shuttlebay is typically used as the primary bay for day-to-day operations, while the two forward bays are used to house mission-specific vehicles like fighters or runabouts. Connected by a hanger deck between them, the forward bays are relatively shallow but help in simultaneous launch and recovery efforts and can allow an entire squadron of fighters to launch at once.  
=== Engineering ===
The ''Sutherland''’s similar configuration to the ''Nebula''-class is where the similarities end. The matching profiles of the two classes belie the fact that every major component of the ''Sutherland'' has been designed from scratch. The ship is outfitted with state-of-the-art systems ready for service well into, and potentially even beyond the 25<sup>th</sup> Century.  


== Tactical ==
The warp core aboard the ''Sutherland''-class is robust; powerful enough to provide for the needs of sprawling bio-neural computing nodes, subatomic spectral analysis modules and other starbase-level tools. This has, however, limited the ship’s cruising speed to warp 7. A sprinting speed of warp 9 also means that the ''Sutherland'' might not be the first ship in a given region to reach the site of an incident.  
As the term would suggest, a heavy escort is a tactically capable starship superior to an escort but inferior to a heavy cruiser–what other powers would call a destroyer. As such, the ''Gagarin'' falls in a tactical range between the ''Reliant'' and ''[[Inquiry Class|Inquiry]]'' classes but has superior exploratory capabilities to a frigate. A total of twelve Type-XII phaser arrays and eight torpedo launchers make the ''Gagarin'' a formidable adversary. Her shallow forward profile makes her ideal as a tip-of-the-spear, charging in with impressive forward firepower while avoiding retaliation. Like most ships of her era, the ''Gagarin'' has heavy ablative armor and powerful shields, which allow her to shrug off most hits, at least at first. She is most vulnerable to attacks from above or below, where the advantage of her low profile is lost.  


Intended to lead the smaller ''Reliant''-class ships during their patrols on the edge of Federation space, the ''Gagarin'' is a better choice than most heavy cruisers for front-line command duties, as she can comfortably wade into the fray with the same confidence of success as the ships she is leading without risking too many lives. She can easily go toe-to-toe with cruisers of other races, as well. This is the ship-of-choice for tactical command on duty stations where light to medium combat is expected, rather than simply being capable of combat should it be required.
Extensive hangar space provides ample space for the ''Sutherland''’s compliment of shuttles and runabouts. The largest of these, housing the majority of the support craft, can be found at the stern of the ship. A second auxiliary bay is located to the rear of the saucer section beneath the mission pod’s overhang. Cargo space also abounds, further highlighting the ship’s usefulness in emergency supply or evacuation missions. Twenty cargo bays can also be found lining either side of the rear ventral saucer section and twenty more are positioned on the underside of the secondary hull. All cargo bays have doors opening directly into space for direct resupply of bulky goods while docked.


When so equipped, the forward shuttle bays allow for the rapid deployment of a fighter squadron or runabouts, which enhance the ''Gagarin''’s tactical abilities by providing distraction and covering fire to allow the ship to line up its strafing runs against single targets or by keeping the ship from getting swarmed by vessels it can’t out-maneuver.  
Like the ''Nebula'' before it, the ''Sutherland''-class is able to saucer separate. Unlike its predecessor, however, the Sutherland saucer section is furnished with two small integral warp nacelles located directly under the impulse engines. These allow the saucer section to independently achieve a cruising speed of warp six. As a result, the ''Sutherland'' has a considerable advantage in the study of large stellar bodies such as nebulae or subspace rifts, which may stretch for light years across multiple sectors of space. Data triangulation, sample collection and signal testing can all be achieved to a far more comprehensive degree than if undertaken with probes and support craft. Saucer separation may also be considered before proceeding toward areas of space or stellar phenomena that pose a risk to the ship's safety. Of course, captains may also wish to evacuate civilians and families via saucer separation in anticipation of tactical engagement.  


The ventral surface of the secondary hull hosts eight mission-configurable rapid deployment tubes, which can be used for a number of different probes, buoys, pods, drones, or munitions.  
=== Tactical ===
When placed into a combat situation, the ''Sutherland''-class might be considered somewhat cumbersome from a tactical perspective. Nevertheless, four type XII phaser arrays allow the ship to defend itself adequately from potential harassment by smaller hostile vessels. In case of attack by a more threatening foe, one forward and one aft torpedo launcher can provide defensive cover as the ship beats a hasty retreat.


== Shipboard Life ==
If deployed as part of a Starfleet battle group the ''Sutherland''-class is often placed in a forward reconnaissance position, taking advantage of its long-range sensor capabilities. In such a situation, group commanders would be careful not to position the ''Sutherland'' too far beyond friendly forces as to risk the ship becoming cut off by a rapidly advancing enemy. A ''Sutherland'' might also be positioned towards the centre of a task group so as to be well defended on all sides.  
Still rare, ''Gagarin''-class vessels are considered choice assignments by many new officers because they are being sent to the edges of the Federation. As they are the centerpieces of small patrol formations, their crews often see them as elite, even if the more impressive ''Manticore'' and ''Prometheus''-class heavy escorts beat them out in many ways. ''Gagarin''-class ships don’t spend much time scanning planetoids or taking gaseous particle samples but keep their sensors focused past the Federation’s borders. They are often tasked with customs and piracy interdiction duties, and so crews on these ships become used to tense situations.


As a cutting-edge starship, accommodations aboard the ''Gagarin'' are comfortable but not necessarily luxurious. As much of her internal volume is given over to tactical systems, her crew are treated to roughly the same standard of living as those on the ''Reliant''-class frigates they coordinate. This generally means shared quarters for enlisted personnel and ensigns, conjoined bedrooms for lieutenants, and private quarters for senior officers.  
Surveillance activities are also a potential tactical use of the ''Sutherland''-class’ powerful long range sensor suite. Captains may select mission pods equipped with subspace telemetry and signal interception hardware, enabling early threat detection and monitoring of poorly encrypted subspace communications.  


Unlike explorers, a ''Gagarin'' isn’t meant to provide for smaller ships’ materiel and crew support needs, just to coordinate them, so its recreational and medical facilities are only large enough to provide for its own crew. The ship has a handful of holodecks, a larger number of holosuites, and the standard assortment of lounges and mess halls that one would expect aboard a Starfleet vessel. Medical facilities consist of one standard sickbay module with provisions to convert guest quarters into additional ward space if necessary. Should a task group need additional medical support, it would be accompanied by a utility cruiser or medical vessel.
=== Sensor Pod ===


== ''Gagarin'' class History ==
This is the default [[Mission Pods|mission pod]] loadout for most ''Sutherland-''class starships and can be switched out when docked at an appropriate starbase. The sensor pod contains Starfleet's highest acuity long range scanning array capable of being starship deployed. This powerful and highly sensitive piece of technology can be configured to monitor subspace distortions up to five light years away. Inbuilt quantum spectrometers and neutron pulse resonance scanners are able to image and analyse compositions of celestial bodies down to the nanoatomic level.
While the ''Inquiry''-class heavy cruiser had proven to be an early and resounding success for a relatively large, combat-capable vessel and the ''[[Sovereign Class|Sovereign]]'' was becoming by the 2390s a more ubiquitous flagship platform, Starfleet recognized a need for a medium-sized command ship to be sent to less-important duty stations around the Federation. For instance, a ''Sovereign'' would be a poor use of resources to lead patrols along the Kzinti border, as well as too tempting of a target. The presence of such a large ship might be enough to turn minor raider skirmishes into a concerted attack to remove the threat.


The brief for this new class was given as a combat-capable vessel that could coordinate and support frigates, scouts, and escorts with a minimum of fuss in difficult duty stations. The ''Gagarin''-class design was developed throughout the late 2390s using similar technologies to those employed aboard the ''Reliant''-class frigate. While not intended to be a one-for-one replacement of the [[Akira Class|''Akira''-class heavy cruiser]], the design incorporated some of that class’s small craft abilities with simplified versions of her torpedo armaments.
The sensor pod is what gives the Sutherland the best eyes and ears of any Starfleet vessel. Without it, the tactical advantages of communications monitoring and ultra long range scanning power are lost.
=== Shipboard Life ===
''Sutherland''-class ships can be incredibly interesting and diverse places to serve aboard. Their considerable size makes for lively communities with plenty of activities available for those who wish to spend their downtime productively, or otherwise. Ships often possess arboretums, zoological centres, and stellar cartography domes along with the usual gamut of bars, lounges and library archives.  


Starfleet approved the ''Gagarin''-class heavy escort in 2397, and the prototypes began their shakedown operations in mid-2399. The class was certified for deep space service in early 2400 and is now in full production.
The huge potential for cutting edge research and specialist equipment attracts some of Starfleet’s keenest scientists. The science departments on these ships are so large that each ship becomes a self-sustaining research community. Even when no specific events taking place, sub-department leads and area specialists will often give their own lectures and present their latest research findings to each other.


== The ''Gagarin'' In-Play ==
Engineers make up the second largest department on board the ''Sutherland''-class. Keeping computer systems running optimally, fine tuning finicky scientific apparatus, transporting and building pre-replicated planetary structures are all potential situations an engineering officer may encounter. This environment favours officers who are jacks of all trades and who appreciate the fact that no two assignments will ever be the same.


* The historical analog you might look to for this class would be a destroyer leader, a vessel meant to serve in front-line tactical scenarios with the leader of a group of smaller vessels embarked. This is different than the behavior of a larger flagship--standing back from the action and coordinating, as the ''Gagarin'' has enough teeth to hold its own, while also not risking a large crew in combat situations.
Commanding such a large ship is no easy task. This assignment involves a great deal of management skill when it comes to inter-departmental rivalries and egos that are liable to develop on a science vessel of this size. Captains must learn to balance the research needs of the scientific community with the practicalities of the engineers who make things happen. Friendly rivalries may develop into serious confrontations if not kept in check by a commanding officer with their ear firmly to the ground regarding shipboard goings on. Pilots and command personnel might feel detached from these conflicts and must themselves be careful to avoid appearing aloof.
* Ships like this are being sent to the Federation's borders to lead the efforts of smaller ships, so there are some good opportunities here for collaboration with others in your task force.
 
* Captains of these vessels would likely either have significant command experience as a first officer in tactical areas, or they would have previously commanded a scout or frigate.
== Class History ==
* Compared to other tactically-oriented vessels, the ''Gagarin'' is solid and well-equipped, but has fewer novel systems and fewer outright weaknesses. It's mean to be a dependable patrol ship, rather than an advanced deep-space strike vessel. A solid choice for stories where you want your characters to be able to toe the line between being in danger and being too powerful.
In 2384, the Advanced Starship Design Bureau received instructions from Starfleet Command to draw up plans for a new type of science vessel. Growing tensions in the Beta Quadrant caused concern within Starfleet over its ability to continue its exploration mandate should large portions of its fleet need to be repurposed for conflict with the rapidly destabilising Romulan Star Empire. After two years of sifting through numerous design proposals, the ''Sutherland''-class was the Bureau’s eventual response.
 
The design was favoured above all because of its versatility. The chosen spaceframe borrowed heavily from the proven Nebula-class design concept. However, where the ''Nebula'' had been a generalist, involved in the full spectrum of combat operations, first contact missions and diplomacy, the ''Sutherland'' would become a specialist. Indeed, the ''Sutherland'' was expected to be a “Swiss army knife” of Starfleet’s scientific operations. The ship is larger than its predecessor with even more internal modularity. This provides room for the kind of specialised science laboratories and research facilities that up until now has only been found on static Starfleet installations.
 
A wide range of large, customisable mission pods would be made available, further boosting the ''Sutherland''’s ability to step into various logistical support roles throughout the fleet. Additions like the tactical pod provide captains with some limited combat capability should the need arise. As of 2400, however, the ''Sutherland''’s main role remains as a scientific follow up vessel for points of interest identified by initial surveys undertaken by Starfleet’s scouts and explorers. The ship has lived up to its design brief of being a one stop shop for identifying, analysing and disseminating research findings while remaining adaptable to the needs of the mission at hand.
 
== In Play ==
 
* The ''Sutherland''-class is a very large ship. There are lively communities of scientists, engineers and support personnel on board. Much like the ''Galaxy''-class, the ''Sutherland'' has the feeling of being a “city in space”.
* While larger and more modern than the ''Nebula''-class, the ''Sutherland'' is not as equipped for combat situations. Manoeuvring such a bulky ship is not easy, and often a captain’s best course of action is often to retreat. Tactical pods can level the playing field somewhat, and it is not unheard of for ''Sutherlands'' so equipped to act as intelligence gathering units or reconnaissance patrols.
* Mission pods give the ''Sutherland'' a great deal of flexibility in the kinds of missions it can participate in. These allow the ship to instantly specialise to meet the needs of your story.
* A ''Sutherland'' is not an explorer in the strictest sense of the designation. Despite this, it is still a prestigious an interesting assignment for any captain, scientist or engineer looking to further develop the galaxy’s knowledge of new life and new civilisations.  
 
[[Category:Federation starship classes]]
[[Category:Heavy Cruisers]]

Revision as of 10:37, 7 July 2022

This article is official Bravo Fleet canon.









Sutherland class aftb.png
Sutherland Class
Information
Affiliation

United Federation of Planets

Status

Active

Role

Heavy Cruiser

Service
Operator

Starfleet

Entered Service

2398

Endurance
Expected Design Life

100 Years

Expected Refit Cycle

10 Years

Expected Resupply Cycle

3 Years

Crew Capacity
Standard Complement

900

Emergency Capacity

12,800

Dimensions
Length

580 meters

Width

520 meters

Height

180 meters

Decks

45

Propulsion
Propulsion Systems

Matter/Antimatter powered warp drive

Cruise Speed

Warp 7

Maximum Speed

Warp 9

Emergency Speed

Warp 9.8 (12 hours)

Armaments
Energy Weapons
  • 5x Type-XII Phaser Arrays
Torpedo Launchers

Pod mounted

  • 2 forward
  • 2 aft
Torpedo Payload
  • 150 Photon Torpedoes
  • 150 Quantum Torpedoes
Shields

Multi-Layered Shielding System

Small Craft
Shuttlebays

2

Shuttles

14

Runabouts

4

Template:Specification



The Sutherland-class research cruiser is a large science vessel derived from the Nebula-class heavy cruiser. It is intended to carry large scale instruments into the field with large crews of scientific personnel; it is by far the largest dedicated science vessel in service. Compared to the Nebula, many of its exterior features have been simplified and it is more lightly armed. These vessels can mainly be found making use of their vast scientific and research capabilities to perform extremely detailed studies of planets, celestial phenomena, anomalies and entire regions of space.

Science and Exploration

While rarely being deployed at a long enough range to be on the truly cutting edge of space exploration, the Sutherland-class excels at the follow up. Fully customisable sensor palettes are designed to house a comprehensive suite of Starfleet’s most advanced particle detection technology. From quarks to chronitons, photons to quantum filaments; if it’s there, the Sutherland-class will sniff it out. As a result, the geo-imaging, cartographic and data collection capabilities of this class of ship are second to none.  

Like its predecessor, the large internal volume of the Sutherland-class makes it something of a “mobile starbase” in terms of scientific output. Extensive laboratory complexes and specialist analytical facilities are networked with bio-neural computing power measuring in yottaFLOPS. Again, like the Nebula-class, there exists a large amount of vacant internal space available for upgrades, mission specific equipment and anything else that might be considered necessary for the wide variety of missions a Sutherland-class vessel might find itself assigned to.

With a detachment of five runabouts and fourteen shuttlecraft, the Sutherland-class has all it needs to act as a temporary base of operations for smaller manned missions. These range from observation of stellar phenomena from different vantage points to collection and cataloguing of bio-specimens during planetary surveys. Resources also exist aboard the Sutherland-class for the transportation of industrial replimat components planetside. While large, these replimats are limited to the production of field hospitals, emergency shelters, “duck blinds” and research outposts. The construction of any larger structures remains beyond the scope of a single vessel.  

The sheer size and complexity of the scientific systems aboard the Sutherland-class have limited its ability to carry out long range independent operations. Although internal space and mission pods can be used for extra deuterium storage, the colossal energy requirements of maintaining the Sutherland’s scientific and computational prowess make its deployment to very far-flung regions of the galaxy both unlikely and inefficient. Starfleet has instead commissioned these ships to operate as massive mobile data collection platforms, regularly returning to starbase to disseminate information and take on new mission critical modules, materiel and personnel.  

Diplomatic

The size of the Sutherland-class makes it a viable option for hosting diplomatic functions, conferences and transporting large groups of dignitaries between destinations within Federation space. Such meetings and events often form part of Starfleet’s obligations under research sharing agreements negotiated between the Federation and other galactic powers. In such cases, the Sutherland-class may well find itself traveling beyond Federation borders in the name of scientific cooperation.  

Humanitarian aid is an area in which the Sutherland-class excels. Reconfigurable space throughout the ship, along with mission pods containing hospital facilities, storage and emergency shelters, allow the Sutherland-class to assist with a whole host of mission types in this arena. Planetary evacuations, contagions, natural disaster and famine relief are all scenarios in which the Sutherland-class would be a crucial responder.

It is uncommon, but not unheard of for ships of the Sutherland-class to engage in first contact missions. The most likely scenario here would be following on from initial discoveries made by scout ships without the means to establish meaningful diplomatic connections alone, such as Nova or Rhode Island-class vessels. More likely would be the involvement of the Sutherland-class with second contact missions with civilisations known to be peaceful, possessing similar cultural interests to the Federation. In this situation, the Sutherland-class acts as an ideal showcase of Federation science and research technology.

Engineering

The Sutherland’s similar configuration to the Nebula-class is where the similarities end. The matching profiles of the two classes belie the fact that every major component of the Sutherland has been designed from scratch. The ship is outfitted with state-of-the-art systems ready for service well into, and potentially even beyond the 25th Century.

The warp core aboard the Sutherland-class is robust; powerful enough to provide for the needs of sprawling bio-neural computing nodes, subatomic spectral analysis modules and other starbase-level tools. This has, however, limited the ship’s cruising speed to warp 7. A sprinting speed of warp 9 also means that the Sutherland might not be the first ship in a given region to reach the site of an incident.

Extensive hangar space provides ample space for the Sutherland’s compliment of shuttles and runabouts. The largest of these, housing the majority of the support craft, can be found at the stern of the ship. A second auxiliary bay is located to the rear of the saucer section beneath the mission pod’s overhang. Cargo space also abounds, further highlighting the ship’s usefulness in emergency supply or evacuation missions. Twenty cargo bays can also be found lining either side of the rear ventral saucer section and twenty more are positioned on the underside of the secondary hull. All cargo bays have doors opening directly into space for direct resupply of bulky goods while docked.

Like the Nebula before it, the Sutherland-class is able to saucer separate. Unlike its predecessor, however, the Sutherland saucer section is furnished with two small integral warp nacelles located directly under the impulse engines. These allow the saucer section to independently achieve a cruising speed of warp six. As a result, the Sutherland has a considerable advantage in the study of large stellar bodies such as nebulae or subspace rifts, which may stretch for light years across multiple sectors of space. Data triangulation, sample collection and signal testing can all be achieved to a far more comprehensive degree than if undertaken with probes and support craft. Saucer separation may also be considered before proceeding toward areas of space or stellar phenomena that pose a risk to the ship's safety. Of course, captains may also wish to evacuate civilians and families via saucer separation in anticipation of tactical engagement.

Tactical

When placed into a combat situation, the Sutherland-class might be considered somewhat cumbersome from a tactical perspective. Nevertheless, four type XII phaser arrays allow the ship to defend itself adequately from potential harassment by smaller hostile vessels. In case of attack by a more threatening foe, one forward and one aft torpedo launcher can provide defensive cover as the ship beats a hasty retreat.

If deployed as part of a Starfleet battle group the Sutherland-class is often placed in a forward reconnaissance position, taking advantage of its long-range sensor capabilities. In such a situation, group commanders would be careful not to position the Sutherland too far beyond friendly forces as to risk the ship becoming cut off by a rapidly advancing enemy. A Sutherland might also be positioned towards the centre of a task group so as to be well defended on all sides.  

Surveillance activities are also a potential tactical use of the Sutherland-class’ powerful long range sensor suite. Captains may select mission pods equipped with subspace telemetry and signal interception hardware, enabling early threat detection and monitoring of poorly encrypted subspace communications.

Sensor Pod

This is the default mission pod loadout for most Sutherland-class starships and can be switched out when docked at an appropriate starbase. The sensor pod contains Starfleet's highest acuity long range scanning array capable of being starship deployed. This powerful and highly sensitive piece of technology can be configured to monitor subspace distortions up to five light years away. Inbuilt quantum spectrometers and neutron pulse resonance scanners are able to image and analyse compositions of celestial bodies down to the nanoatomic level.

The sensor pod is what gives the Sutherland the best eyes and ears of any Starfleet vessel. Without it, the tactical advantages of communications monitoring and ultra long range scanning power are lost.

Shipboard Life

Sutherland-class ships can be incredibly interesting and diverse places to serve aboard. Their considerable size makes for lively communities with plenty of activities available for those who wish to spend their downtime productively, or otherwise. Ships often possess arboretums, zoological centres, and stellar cartography domes along with the usual gamut of bars, lounges and library archives.  

The huge potential for cutting edge research and specialist equipment attracts some of Starfleet’s keenest scientists. The science departments on these ships are so large that each ship becomes a self-sustaining research community. Even when no specific events taking place, sub-department leads and area specialists will often give their own lectures and present their latest research findings to each other.

Engineers make up the second largest department on board the Sutherland-class. Keeping computer systems running optimally, fine tuning finicky scientific apparatus, transporting and building pre-replicated planetary structures are all potential situations an engineering officer may encounter. This environment favours officers who are jacks of all trades and who appreciate the fact that no two assignments will ever be the same.

Commanding such a large ship is no easy task. This assignment involves a great deal of management skill when it comes to inter-departmental rivalries and egos that are liable to develop on a science vessel of this size. Captains must learn to balance the research needs of the scientific community with the practicalities of the engineers who make things happen. Friendly rivalries may develop into serious confrontations if not kept in check by a commanding officer with their ear firmly to the ground regarding shipboard goings on. Pilots and command personnel might feel detached from these conflicts and must themselves be careful to avoid appearing aloof.

Class History

In 2384, the Advanced Starship Design Bureau received instructions from Starfleet Command to draw up plans for a new type of science vessel. Growing tensions in the Beta Quadrant caused concern within Starfleet over its ability to continue its exploration mandate should large portions of its fleet need to be repurposed for conflict with the rapidly destabilising Romulan Star Empire. After two years of sifting through numerous design proposals, the Sutherland-class was the Bureau’s eventual response.

The design was favoured above all because of its versatility. The chosen spaceframe borrowed heavily from the proven Nebula-class design concept. However, where the Nebula had been a generalist, involved in the full spectrum of combat operations, first contact missions and diplomacy, the Sutherland would become a specialist. Indeed, the Sutherland was expected to be a “Swiss army knife” of Starfleet’s scientific operations. The ship is larger than its predecessor with even more internal modularity. This provides room for the kind of specialised science laboratories and research facilities that up until now has only been found on static Starfleet installations.

A wide range of large, customisable mission pods would be made available, further boosting the Sutherland’s ability to step into various logistical support roles throughout the fleet. Additions like the tactical pod provide captains with some limited combat capability should the need arise. As of 2400, however, the Sutherland’s main role remains as a scientific follow up vessel for points of interest identified by initial surveys undertaken by Starfleet’s scouts and explorers. The ship has lived up to its design brief of being a one stop shop for identifying, analysing and disseminating research findings while remaining adaptable to the needs of the mission at hand.

In Play

  • The Sutherland-class is a very large ship. There are lively communities of scientists, engineers and support personnel on board. Much like the Galaxy-class, the Sutherland has the feeling of being a “city in space”.
  • While larger and more modern than the Nebula-class, the Sutherland is not as equipped for combat situations. Manoeuvring such a bulky ship is not easy, and often a captain’s best course of action is often to retreat. Tactical pods can level the playing field somewhat, and it is not unheard of for Sutherlands so equipped to act as intelligence gathering units or reconnaissance patrols.
  • Mission pods give the Sutherland a great deal of flexibility in the kinds of missions it can participate in. These allow the ship to instantly specialise to meet the needs of your story.
  • A Sutherland is not an explorer in the strictest sense of the designation. Despite this, it is still a prestigious an interesting assignment for any captain, scientist or engineer looking to further develop the galaxy’s knowledge of new life and new civilisations.
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