In order to battle the X-wing on equal footing, the Empire
released the TIE interceptor; fast, intimidating and
dangerous.
Sienar Fleet Systems was contracted to produce a TIE
fighter which could stand up against the Rebel craft
which were constantly getting the better of the Imperial
starfighters. Designed with greater speed and firepower,
the TIE interceptor refined the look of the standard TIE/In
with two dagger-like solar panels. Not only did this prove
intimidating to enemies, but it also increased the pilot's
visibility - one of the many problems pilots had with the
TIE/In. On each wingtip was mounted a laser cannon,
doubling the firepower of the standard TIE.
Based on the TIE Advanced x1 piloted by Darth Vader, the TIE interceptor was considered to be the pinnacle of the TIE series - even against later designs such as the TIE Defender. However, the interceptor never managed to replace the TIE/In, as its designers hoped. Though TIE interceptor wings were placed on most Star Destroyers in the fleet, only 20 percent of Imperial starfighters at the time of the Emperor's death were interceptors. The small number of TIE interceptors held up thanks to their advancements, and were still part of the Imperial fleet years later, during Grand Admiral Thrawn's campaign. He began arming them with shield generators, knowing the Empire could no longer consider the ships disposable. |
