V-111 (Thunderwing) Class XI Assault Cruiser

design by Morgan Donovan

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

One of several attempts to create a joint venture between Klingon and Romulan shipbuilders, the V-111 proved no more successful than the other attempts at salvaging the ill-fated technological exchanges of the era. The V-111 was first proposed in mid-2280, with shipwrights from both governments contributing input and technical schematics. However, by 2285, only three hulls had been started within the Romulan sphere of influence – none of which were approaching completion in a timely manner. In the end, the V-111 would see limited approval from Romulan fleet commanders and would go on to serve in a limited capacity throughout the Romulan Empire, despite it’s capabilities.

The Type 1 saw the greatest general Klingon influence, incorporating the distinctive Klingon style secondary hull components. Larger than traditional Romulan wing designs, the Klingon style of wing did provide significantly greater internal volume for laboratory spaces, cargo storage and troop housing, something the Romulans were less inclined to include. None the less, the design allowed the Romulans to include over 200 troops when needed, with full support and long-range ground capabilities included. However, by 2290, improvements were already be called for, and the Type 2 was quickly fielded.

The Type 2 increased the overall firepower of the V-111, as did the Type 3, launched seven years later. The lack of popularity with the design did cause the designs production to be cancelled in 2305 with only 60 hulls finalized.

The V-111 was still considered viable, however, and in 2307, the Type 4 was fielded with improved shields and a third generation of the RCD cloaking device. All Type 1, 2 and 3s were upgraded to the Type 4 sometime after 2315.

The Type 5, first seen in 2328 by the Klingons, is believed to have been fielded with an increase in the impulse drive and torpedo firepower.

The final operational variant, the Type 6, is believed to have taken a significant departure from the Type 5, incorporating the quantum-singularity drive to power the RWJ warp nacelles. This drive provided excellent power for the ship, whose primary weapons were once again upgraded.

The final fate of these vessels was never determined as the V-111 disappeared from the Klingon border some time after 2360. None were known to have participated in the Dominion War and records that they may have been deployed along other borders or in frontier areas. Neither the Romulan Free State or any other Romulan splinter organization appear to be fielding these vessels. With 60 of these vessels known to have been built, Star Fleet remains interested in the final disposition of these vessels.

The class is named for a large avian from Levaeri V, known to hunt primarily during thunderstorms.