User:RelentlessRecusant/EF449 Preying Mantis-class interceptor

F779 Predator-class Interceptor

The F779 Predator-class interceptor was a multirole space superiority fighter classification operated by the UNSC Navy during the Galactic Era. It was intended to be the successor to the aging F506 Piranha-class interceptor, and would see increasing deployment in the UNSC's starfighter squadrons.

Specifications
The Predator-class interceptor is an advanced space superiority starfighter, armed with two Mk. 13 Stormfire-class Mass Drivers for close-range anti-fighter combat as well as two interalized Mod. 2 Missile Launch Tubes armed with either ten AIM-416 Steaker-class fighter-to-fighter missiles against hostile starfighters or in an alternative loadout, six AGM-190 Javelin-class fighter-to-ship missiles. These two various missile loadouts allow the Predator-class to not only maintain space superiority over enemy starfighters, but in its alternative configuration, the F779 is armed to provide an anti-capital ship and anti-surface capability.

The starfighter is 14.5 meters long, far shorter than the antediluvian and massive C709 Longsword-class fighter that was the UNSC line fighter during the Human-Covenant War. It was specifically designed with low visibility and stealth-like technologies, presenting a minimal radar cross-section for enemy radars, and its small bulk allows for high velocities and manueverabilities; the Predator-class interceptor has been toted as one of the fastest and maneuverable fighters in the galaxy, and novel light-weight alloys and advanced engine systems allow it to even outpace certain high-speed Covenant fighters; a first for UNSC starfighters.

Deployment
The F779 Predator-class interceptor was the most advanced fleet interceptor available to the UNSC Navy during the Galactic Era and the dawn of the 27th century; however, because it was still in its first production runs, the rarity of these fighters ensured that typically, only veteran squadrons in high-risk operations theaters were assigned the Predator-class starfighters.

Carrier Air Wing One

 * Saber Squadron, stationed aboard fleet carrier UNSC Cydonia

Carrier Air Wing Three

 * Blue Squadron, stationed aboard main battle cruiser UNSC Heracles

Behind the Scenes

 * The F779 Predator-class interceptor derives its numerical designation from "CCI-779", the alternatve name of Temsirolimus, an mTOR inhibitor marketed for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma and approved by the FDA.