Science Fair Project Encyclopedia
TIE interceptor
The TIE interceptor, or TIE/I, a fictional starfighter in the Star Wars universe, is an improved version of the TIE fighter, that is identifiable by its arrow-shaped side pods, as distinct from the hexagonal ones on its parent craft. They are seen mainly in the massed fleet battle in Return of the Jedi.
Like its predecessor, the TIE fighter, the TIE interceptor carries no shielding but has superb acceleration and maneuverability. Improved avionics have been implemented and the radiator panels have a cut-out notch to improve lateral visibility. The original production variant has four laser cannons mounted on each wingtip, but some fans (and the author of the Attack of The Clones: Incredible Cross Sections, Dr Curtis Saxton) have hypothesized a version with ten cannons, including an additional cannon mounted at the end of each wingtip and two more in the empty command pod hardpoints, much like the original TIE fighter.
Emperor Palpatine, knowing the supreme abilities of the TIE interceptor, had planned to replace all standard TIE fighters with interceptors. By the Battle of Endor, TIE interceptors filled 20% of the total Imperial Starfighter Force.
In the X-wing/TIE Fighter computer game series, whilst still unshielded, the interceptor's speed and multiple cannons make it an effective craft against most rebel craft, provided there are superior numbers of Imperials to prevent concentration of fire.
In the Expanded Universe, it should be noted that during and after Grand Admiral Thrawn took control of the Imperial Remnants, many of his TIE interceptors were shielded to minimize casualties due to limited pilot supplies, and limited ship numbers compared to the numerous TIE fighters.
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