TIE Advanced x4 /TIE/IN
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The TIE Advanced x4 starfighter, or TIE/IN Interceptor, was a TIE series starfighter used by the Galactic Empire.
Design
The TIE Interceptor was identifiable by its arrow-shaped solar collection panels, a distinct difference from the hexagonal solar arrays of its predecessor, the TIE Fighter. The Interceptor was one of the fastest starfighters in the galaxy at its prime, nearly rivaling the Alliance's RZ-1 A-wing interceptor. Like most TIE models, the TIE Interceptor shared nearly identical cockpits, drive pods, and wing brace designs with the TIE Fighter. The solar collector panels were lengthened and angled, and the forward center section was removed. This new solar array design gave the Interceptor its unmistakable dagger-like appearance, while providing the pilot with increased visibility and shrinking its profile to make targeting more frustrating for enemy gunners. This wing design gave the craft a more menacing visage, continuing the Empire's reputation of ruling through fear.
The original production model came equipped with four laser cannons, one installed on each wingtip. New targeting software was installed in the TIE Interceptor, and the upgraded targeting computer offered greater accuracy during complex flight maneuvers. Twin laser cannon hardpoints still remained on the "chin" portion of the cockpit module. Provided that technicians could find room for additional power generators, these cannons could also be utilized. The Interceptors were also capable of supporting concussion warheads. Further upgrades in later versions, including hyperdrives, proton torpedo launchers, and advanced shielding made them equal to the Rebellion's X-wing starfighters. Later TIE Interceptor models were modified to carry six blaster cannons, Four replacing the original wingtip laser cannons, along with twin chin-mounted laser cannons.
History
After the Empire's disastrous loss of 286 TIE/LN starfighters to the Lightspeed Panthers during the Fei Hu campaign in 1 BBY, the Empire realized the superiority of the Incom T-65 X-wing starfighters, and decided to create an interceptor model of the TIE series as a means to counter the X-wing, with development succeeding that same year. In large part because of the success, they were later utilized in campaigns such as Operation Strike Fear and Operation: Skyhook. Another factor in its development was to have the power of the TIE/Advanced line of starfighters but be more cost-effective, as the TIE/Advanced models were too expensive to mass-produce. After the destruction of the first Death Star during the Battle of Yavin, the Empire, realizing quickly the growing threat of the Rebel Alliance, increased mass production of the TIE Interceptors, thus resulting in the TIE Interceptors becoming the new fighter force of the Empire after the battle.
