Cruisers are by far the most numerous and varied craft in most space navies,
and come in many sizes and varieties including Heavy, Command,
Medium, Supplemental, Light,
Research
and Medical Cruiser types amongst others. One of the
oldest designations, the term Cruiser refers to a large array of vessel types
and sizes. Cruisers can be both general purpose and mission specific, with many
capable of autonomously switching between the two extremes when needed. Cruisers
are not as large or powerful as Battleships or Dreadnoughts, but can often be as
effective in military conflict. Cruiser are also highly varied in their
abilities to explore and expand the boundaries of established governments. First
contacts, stellar and planetary research as well as diplomatic negotiations are
all well within the purveyance of Cruiser class vessels. Cruisers can also
easily switch to medical emergency mode, search and rescue and evacuation when
needed. Most cruisers have a large science base, consisting of numerous sensor
system, independent science labs and numerous on-board departments that
specialize in a wide variety of space and planetary science.
Cruisers often have a large engineering contingent, giving a cruiser unique
forward capabilities while in deep space. Cruisers can maintain lengthy patrols
and explore well beyond the boundaries of established boarder space. Cruisers
are often well armed and very capable of defence and combat when necessary.
Cruisers are the mainstay of the Romulan Navy, and an expansive part of the
Federation and Klingon Navies.
Like other Medical vessels, Medical Cruisers are designed to provide
extensive medical facilities for very large groups of people. Most Medical
Cruisers can take on hundreds of patients when necessary, and have sufficient
supplies to operate in the field for several years. Unlike other Medical
vessels, Medical Cruisers dedicate nearly every on-board lab to medical
treatment and research, with many Medical Cruisers having large civilian medical
staff.
Unlike Medical Frigates, Medical Cruisers have fewer trauma bays, but a
greater number of surgical wards. Medical Cruisers also have a greater number of
non-humanoid surgical systems and a larger long-term care capability. Although
able to take on a tremendous number of refugees, Medical Cruisers can not
support them readily and must rely on other vessels for transportations of such
groups. Medical Cruisers also have larger medicine production capability, and
are able to transport or deliver mass quantities of rare medicines to other
ships and planets.
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