The two-hundred metre long Kuat Dash-Four bulk freighter was already considered an elderly design by the time of the late republic and had fallen out of favour with many mercantile operations. Although the vessel came with a very generous hold, loading and shifting cargo was difficult, labour intensive and often not worth the hassle. The Dash-Four was designed with atmospheric landing and loading in mind, but the ship's size confined it to only the most expensive berths.

During the first years of the Clone wars, some Dash-Fours were converted into troop transports and escort ships. A handful of these converted ships would go on to serve in the imperial navy as escorts and patrol boats. Officially classified as Sword-Class frigates, the thick, re-entry capable hull rendered them sturdy and surprisingly competent vessels despite their age and light armament.

(Core hull design was devised by a friend, greebles and detailing provided by myself. Renders available at https://imgur.com/a/D3LyQ0H )