Light-Class Fighters

ENCOUNTERED Corneria, Zoness, Macbeth, Bolse, Venom

INTEL Dr. Andross's extensive wartime arsenal includes a diverse array of light fighter craft. These fighters are deployed in large numbers across the Lylat System, most typically utilized for inner-atmosphere combat. Produced in bulk on Macbeth, these craft—many of which are unpiloted drones—are treated as expendable assets by the enemy, whose primary tactic has been to overwhelm targets with superior numbers.

This tactic has been dishearteningly successful. While enemy fighters in this category pose little threat individually to an Academy-trained pilot, they have proven deadly in numbers or as part of a diverse deployment of enemy forces.

Of note is the Bandit Fighter I, deployed throughout the system, from Corneria to Zoness to Venom. They are fast and maneuverable, capable of tight turns and prone to giving chase. They often travel in compact squadrons, so charged shots are a useful tactic.

Venom Fighter I craft also fly in tight clusters, sometimes in tremendous numbers. They prefer whenever possible to coordinate their attacks with other units, such as Tripod Fighters, pinning enemies down with fire from multiple directions.

The Venom Fighter II are speedy craft that focus on evasion. A squadron of these fighters was sent to support the invasion of Corneria, with remaining units held in reserve on Venom.

Bolse Fighters are known for their exceptional shielding. They launch from the Bolse satellite and act in defense of that station, rather than deploying to remote combat zones.

ASSESSMENT It pays to be adaptable when confronting light-class fighters in the field, as recommended strategies will differ depending on type, number, and environment. Consider charged shots or even bombs when enemies are grouped together. Lock on targets to minimize friendly fire and always be ready to come to an ally's aid.