USS Apache
The USS Apache (NCC-71602) is a Cheyenne-class assigned to Task Force 93 under the command of Captain Zainn Kimar. It operates as a rapid response vessel for humanitarian missions. While an older class of ship, Apache can handle missions in many different regions, supporting other ships or those in need of supplies.
Mission Parameters
Thanks to her specially equipped cargo facilities, Apache excels in delivering perishable goods quickly. This is useful for delivering medicines, equipment, or foodstuffs that cannot easily be replicated. Her defensive capabilities also make her suitable for delivering dangerous cargo like nanites or biomimetic gel with a low risk of these goods being taken by threat forces. Typically, Apache does not conduct relief missions herself but instead transfers her cargo to a vessel more suited for frontline response tasks. However, in a pinch, she is more than capable of delivering goods directly to a planet in need.
Given her armaments, Apache can be used in a pinch in a secondary role as an escort, protecting other vessels in the task force on humanitarian missions, particularly medical vessels. When not embarked on a response mission or as an escort, Apache conducts general patrol and survey missions.
Service History
Apache came into service in 2350 as one of the handful of Cheyenne-class starships built. However, it was redirected to other efforts within Starfleet. Its purpose was to help with humanitarian efforts, especially after the Dominion War. In 2385, USS Apache assisted in evacuating and resettlement of Romulan refugees fleeing the impending supernova. This was brought to an end when Mars was attacked. Starfleet had withdrawn its support and recalled all ships, including the Apache.
In 2399, Apache was dispatched to the Archanis sector to assist worlds affected by the attacks and raids of the Hunters of D’Ghor during their attack on Federation worlds. After the events of Frontier Day, Apache was assigned to Task Force 93 as a rapid response vessel, assisting with humanitarian efforts and serving as an escort for ships within the task force.
Design and Layout
Apache has been in service for many decades but has received regular upgrades to allow it to remain an excellent platform for delivering humanitarian supplies, particularly sensitive medical equipment, perishable food, or fragile drugs, which can be stored in a dozen climate-controlled and gravitationally stabilized bays that ring the saucer section. She received her most recent ship-wide refit in 2390, which has left her with sleek, austere corridors with internal colors ranging from blue to teal to reflect her general association with medical and humanitarian missions.
The bridge of Apache is similar to those used aboard late 24th-century starships, containing a trio of command chairs in the center, with wall-mounted science and operations stations aft and free-standing helm and tactical stations forward. A centrally located aft door leads to the ship's conference lounge.
Auxiliary Craft
To support its logistics mission, Apache carries two general duty Type-6A personnel shuttles, Chatto and Dahteste, and two Type-17 cargo shuttles, Gouyen and Lozen, all named after historical Apache figures.
Crew of the Apache
Captain Zainn Kimar
Commander Reanni Desi
In Play
- The Apache is a task force asset, and any writer in Task Force 93 may feature it in their stories
- While an older class of starship, the Cheyenne-class fast cruiser remains a versatile design that can be found in logistics and patrol roles.
- In its rapid response role, Apache usually delivers supplies to other vessels in Task Force 93 to get them to their final destination, meaning that she is a good choice for you to rendezvous with on your way to an exciting rescue mission or medical mystery.
- The cargo Apache carries is often valuable, especially rare or dangerous medicines, so she is a potential target for raiders. While she can generally escape on her own, rescuing the Apache from danger can be an excellent mission premise.
- If you are embarking on a humanitarian mission in a dangerous area, Apache can also serve as an escort vessel, providing additional tactical support to cover your ship's back. She may be old, but she's still quite capable in this role. You might also encounter Apache on a survey or patrol mission if she's not busy delivering medical or humanitarian supplies.