TIE Fighter

The TIE/LN starfighter, commonly known simply as the TIE fighter, was the signature starfighter of the Galactic Empire and later utilized by the First Order. They were instantly recognizable from the roar of their engines and carried locator beacons so as to be found by the Empire. Designs for the TIE fighter were partly based on the Eta-2 Actis-class interceptor. TIE fighters would later be used 30 years after the Battle of Endor by the First Order.

TIE/LN starfighter were small in size and manufactured en masse by the Empire. Seemingly a disposable vessel, Wilhuff Tarkin dreaded the thought of ever having to pilot one due to its cramped cockpit.

During the reign of the Empire, TIE fighters were favored for their versatility, if not for their durability. They were able to operate both in space as well as in planetary atmospheres, acting as fighters or scouts.[ One great advantage of the TIE fighter was the fact that it was not simply limited to linear flight, like other fighters of its time. On occasion the fighters demonstrated ability to hover in place and even fly completely sideways, adding to the usefulness of the fighter as a scout vehicle. As part of the five year plan for the industrialization of the Outer Rim Territories, TIE fighters were produced on a number of planets, including Lothal. TIEs produced in Sienar's factories on Lothal had shorter, sturdier wings. This allowed the fighters to make surface landing, a feature not included in the standard TIE.