from Klingon Ship Recognition Manual, 2nd Edition, FASA, design by Forest G. Brown, graphics by Dana Knutson
NOTES:
Known Sphere Of Operation: Empire-wide use
Data Reliability: A for A model, C for B, D, E and F models, D for G model
Major Data Source: Klingon Sector Intelligence
Shortly after the discovery of photon technology, the Klingon Imperial Navy initiated a program for a missile-armed destroyer. Several designs were reviewed and tested before the D-2A was commissioned in early 2269. Five months later, the D-2B entered service, different only in the arrangement of its torpedo bays. The D-2 is an excellent offensive weapon against ships of its own class, but it is not able to hold its own against larger ships due to the lack of range its torpedoes have and a relatively weak superstructure.
These missile boats mount KWC-1 warp engines, which gives them good tactical maneuverability. Each mounts two KD-6 disruptors covering all areas of fire as well as four KP-2 photon torpedoes. The D-2A’s torpedo bays are split evenly forward and aft, allowing it to close with and pass through the enemy’s formation, firing torpedoes into usually unprotected aft areas. All the D-2B’s torpedo bays are mounted forward, giving a tremendous amount of punch from the front but none from the rear.
Of the 290 D-2s built, 128 As and 135 Bs remained in active service until 2288; 12 As and 8 Bs have been destroyed; 1 A has been captured by the Romulans; 2 As are listed as missing; 1 A has been scrapped; and 2 As are in the service of prominent families of the Empire. A total of 200 D-2Cs were fielded, including 65 new build models. 1 C is listed as missing, 11 have been destroyed, 2 have been scrapped. 178 Ds were fielded, including 128 converted As and 50 new builds. 10 Ds were destroyed, 1 was scrapped, 1 was captured by the Romulans and 10 were traded to the various interests. A total of 244 D-2Es were commissioned including 88 new builds. 1 is listed as missing, 8 have been destroyed, 3 have been scrapped, 2 have been captured (1 by the Romualns and 1 by the Cardassians), 40 have been placed in reserve fleets and 10 are in service to ranking families in the Empire. 209 D-2Fs were commissioned, however – only 29 were new builds. 3 Fs have been destroyed, 1 has been scrapped and 9 are in reserve fleets.
In early 2340, with relations between the Empire and the Federation strained, planners began a significant update to the now aged D-2. The decision to refit all the aft firing vessels to forward firing ships was considered controversial, but would later serve the Empire well years later. Refits were rushed between 2340 and 2344 until the Romulans once again too center stage with there attack on Narendra III. The newly refit D-2G would serve well against the Romulans but would server with distinction during the Dominion War. Over 300 would serve during that conflict. Currently 320 remain in active service, although most are now used for escort duty due to their extreme age. 2 are listed as missing, 31 have been destroyed, 24 have been scrapped and 4 have been captured. Most D-2s are on schedule to be retired by the end of 2400.
The D-2 class was produced at Iosia and H’renn. Intelligence estimates these facilities produced a combined average of twelve of each type per month.
The class is named from the Klingon vkarzadan, which translates to “the tongue that stings”.