Sidewinder
Light Multipurpose

Description

Most pilots start their careers in the Sidewinder. It is a classic ship design that has been in use (in various configurations) since 2982. Its original design was a light support ship and it lacked jump capability. Modern compact drives have enabled jump-capable versions to be created, making this a useful all rounder. Some navies still use these ships as fighters and patrol craft.

The Sidewinder MkI, built by Faulcon DeLacy, is a superb multipurpose ship suitable for any role. It is inexpensive - free, in fact - and can be used for light transport and combat duties.

Its manoeuvrability makes it an excellent choice for both green and experienced pilots. The Sidewinder is a dependable vessel that will get you where you need to go, safe and sound.

The Sidewinder is the default craft offered throughout the game. The player starts in one, and if at any time their ship is destroyed they can get a free Sidewinder if they can't or don't want to replace their previous ship. New players who still struggle with learning the game, may find themselves flying in a Sidewinder for a longer time or going back to it often.

Although the Sidewinder is cheap, it is not harmless; it is among the top when it comes to manoeuvrability compared to other ships. In particular, it can out-turn most other ships, being topped in that category only by the Eagle, Vulture, and Imperial Courier, and has solid lateral thrust.

It is, however, one of the slowest-moving and weakest-hulled ships in the game; only the Anaconda and certain pure trade ships have slower maximum speeds, and only the Eagle has a weaker hull (but makes up for it with stronger shields.)

The Sidewinder is therefore an acceptable ship in a (figurative) knife-fight, but lacks firepower. When flying one, using its excellent turning to lock opponents into circling matches, and burning away opposite of the enemy to escape are advised tactics. When fighting a Sidewinder, keep it at range and lay down heavy fire if the current ship can't outmanoeuvre it, and it should be destroyed quickly; with a ship that can keep up with its turning, close in and blast away, making sure to stay away from its front.