MD-8 Class IX-X Cruiser

from Starship Tactical Combat Simulator, FASA, graphics by Dana Knutson, Todd F. Marsh and Mitch O’Connell

NOTES:
Known Sphere Of Operation:  Hegemony-wide use
Data Reliability:  D for all models
Major Data Source:  Gorn Sector Intelligence

The MD-8 class of medium cruiser is believed to be the main line long range cruiser currently in use along the Outback, Federation and Expansion boarders. Although undetermined, the angular design of the MD-8 points to construction by the Sls’rig, Hrsk’ri or Hss’li clans. Unlike the Vss’lrs’ rounded designs, or the Griv’li Vis boxy designs, the MD-8 angular wedge design has allowed for excellent weapon placement, as well as a simplistic design layout not seen in other clan designs.

The MD-8a is believed to be the oldest main line cruiser still in use within Gorn territory. Earliest estimates have the A model launched sometime in 2265. At the time, the A model mounted some of the most efficient equipment within the Gorn inventory, including the GSK shield
system, believed to have been developed for the Vss’lrs clan. With powerful warp engines three photon torpedoes mounted forward, the A model would have been a dangerous opponent to both Federation and Romulan vessels. A larger version, believed to have been launched within a year of it’s smaller cousin, is oddly used exclusively along the upper expansion boarder of the Gorn Alliance. Scanned by long range Federation exploration vessels, the B model appears to mount more powerful torpedoes and a larger impulse drive. It is uncertain why these vessels are not encountered along the Federation boarder, but one is know to be operating within the Outback region between the three local superpowers.

The C variant is believed to have been constructed in direct response to the Cestus III encounter. Indication are that the Gorn replaced the more powerful but shorter ranged GP-2 with the more accurate and longer ranged GP-3. It appears that the encounter with the Enterprise’s long range photon torpedoes encouraged the design change, and coupled with the efficient shield system, the MD-8c is thought to be a dangerous vessel for most light to medium cruisers.

In late 2277, the first MD-8d was scanned along the Federation boarder. The D variant mounts more powerful beam weapons, believed to be GBL-6’s. Power readings also indicate that the D variant uses a stronger shield generator. To date, no combat records have been found with D model engagements, and the vessels have not been monitored within the Outback or along the Romulan boarder. By late 2283, conflict between the Gorn and Romulans had become an open affair. The initial Clanhaven Accords were quickly amended to allow heavier Federation vessels along the boarders and into the Outback region. Although no great love existed between the Federation and Gorn Alliance, the Matriarchs of the Alliance seemed to know that allowing a stronger Federation presence near mutual Gorn / Romulan space would curtail Romulan activities in those areas for fear of bringing the Federation into a more generalized conflict. Although the adopted resolutions did cause increased tension within the Gorn Alliance, the presence of Federation forces near the conflict zones did force the Romulan to reexamine their “end-run” strategy, biding time for Gorn forces to consolidate.

Biding time also allowed the Gorn to develop more powerful ships, including the E model of the MD-8. Launched sometime between 2283 and 2284, the MD-8e was a significantly up-gunned variant of the MD-8 class. The E model incorporates the GBL-10 weapon system, mixing power and range in a lethal combination. Long range combat scans also show the use of high firepower torpedoes, believed to be GP-5’s. Shielding also seems to have been improved significantly, and most encounters with Romulan forces end in stalemates or Gorn victories. The E model seems to be more prolific as of late, and one was recently scanned leaving Clanhaven, where negotiations are once again underway to expand the Gorn/Federation charters.

In 2293, Federation interests, operating with Tellarite mining concerns within the Outback, observed a dramatic battle between two Gorn vessels. At first, is was though that the combat may be a training exercise within Gorn space. After several minutes of combat, the Tellarite captain ordered his vessel to enter the uncharted system and take up position to watch the maneuvers. Knowing he would most likely be chased from the system, under fire, the Tellarite captain was surprised to discover that he was observing no mere training exercise. Both vessels pounded one another for several more minutes before it became clear that one MD-8 significantly outgunned the other. Knowing that internal matters of honor often brought out an even more aggressive side to Gorn captains, the Tellarites made a quick scan of the victor and departed the systems at high warp.

Within days, Star Fleet had added the F model to the Gorn fleet registry. The F model is believed to be the most powerful front line cruiser currently in use by the Gorn. With the vessel rarely seen along the Federation boarder, it is believed that the F model is used primarily again the Romulans. The F model uses the GBL-11 disruptor system, giving the MD-8f a clear advantage in combat. Heavy torpedoes are also mounted on the vessel, equal to the best the Romulans or Federation have in their inventory. But most significantly are indication of frighteningly power shields, well beyond the standard shielding capabilities of most vessels of this class. Coupled with a powerful sensor suite, the MD-8f is one of the most dangerous Gorn vessel in space, and will likely remain so for many years to come.

Current production rate can not be confirmed, but estimates are that 6 MD-8 are built per year, including 2 E’s and 4 F’s. Although the exact disposition of the fleet is uncertain, it is believed that of the 270 or more MD-8’s built, one A model has been destroyed. Indications are that one B model has disappeared and that three model C’s have been destroyed in combat. One model D has been confirmed destroyed by other Gorn forces. One model E is also listed as missing. It is uncertain if this vessel was lost due to political strife within the Alliance or as a result of exploration duties along the expansion boarder. One A model has been scanned under and independent pennant. It is believed this vessel is either a privateer or was sold to political allies, an uncommon but not unheard of practice for the Alliance. The MD-8 is believed to be under contract to several prominent Clan within the Alliance.
 

Part 1

Part 2