SS-3 (Gaza Z’kus) Class VI Destroyer

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

Federation boarder. Since it’s first detection in 2270, the SS-3 has been encountered no less than 50 times over the years. The initial Gorn/Federation treaties banned vessels over 100,000 mt from patrolling the mutual boarder, and several clans quickly built and fielded destroyer sized vessels to help strengthen boarder patrols.

The SS-3 is a typical Gorn design. It weapons are laid out to provide decent coverage against pirate vessels, but can quickly concentrate on a single target and bring a moderately powerful blow to bear. The SS-3 also incorporates forward and aft torpedo systems, which can further enhance the destroyers combat capabilities. SS-3s have so far never been encountered alone, and are always found escorting other vessels or in groups of two or three, where their heavy armor makes them a dangerous opponent.

The SS-3A was the first model encountered and is the only model that was closely scanned at the Clanhaven accord negotiations. At the time, the A model was the equal to most medium destroyers of the period. The SS-3a had a number of drawbacks, though. Compared to other navies, the A model was somewhat underpowered compared to it’s weapon load. It’s unmaneuverability appears to have been a major restriction in many of the recorded military encounters. The A models power intensive shield system firther reduced manuevering capability. Initial reports also indicated that the sensor systems were not as sophisticated as those of other Gorn vessels. With shield and maneuvering power seriously lacking, the SS-3A was believed to be under scrutiny for possible replacement. Intelligence reports point to the SS-3As being used as police ships and escorts, where their heavy armor would be a major deterrent to the growing pirate fleets of the Outback.

The SS-3B was an immediate improvement on the older A model. Scan indicate that a more powerful warp drive is installed on these models, and that the weapon load has been significantly up-gunned. As with all Gorn designs, maneuverability still remain below comparable naval designs, but the B model significantly improves shield efficiency. This model seems to have come into use some time after 2279 in direct response to hostilities with the Romulans.

In 2284, as open war loomed between the Gorn Alliance and Romulan Star Empire, Star Fleet Intelligence resources near Romulan space observed a single SS-3 design attacking a Romulan destroyer of unknown class. The battle was later described as “Titanic” by analysis personnel. The SS-3 seemed to absorb blow upon blow that would have crippled other vessels. The Romulan vessel was soon in serious trouble, even after a Romulan S-11 scout arrived. The SS-3 used it’s aft torpedo to batter the Bird of Prey. Only when a Romualn V-27 was detected on long range did the SS-3 withdraw at top speed. The Intelligence probe was soon out of range of the battle, but impressiveness of the new SS-3 was unmistakable. Later scanns shows the new C model to have stronger shields. The C model’s weapons were also significantly more accurate and powerful than the B model. The SS-3C is believed to now be the standard model. It is unknown if A or B models are being upgraded to the C model. Fears of a D model have not yet surfaced. Best guess estimates place production of the SS-3 at 5 per year, although this rate may be slowing. It is believed that the Hrsk’ri Clan is the major builders of the SS-3. Surprisingly, the destroyer has been spotted along the expansion frontier, traditionally a Gris’tik production area. Which of the two clans are producing the SS-3 remains a mystery, but a cooperation between the two clans is unlikely due to the major design philosophy differences. Of the estimated 300 or more so far built, only 1 is believed to have been lost.

Listed as missing, this vessels is believed to have been commandeered by Gorn Separatist forces who seek a more militant stance against the Federation and Romulans. Although records are sketchy, it is believed that 4 As, 2 Bs and 1 C have been destroyed, all in fairly recent combat experiences with Romulan forces. 1 A model is know to have been scrapped after engaging a large pirate base within the Adria system. The disposition of the remained vessels is unknown.