Asp Explorer

Asp Explorer
Maximum gross mass	150t
Empty mass	30t
Payload	120t
Main thruster accel	22g
Retro thruster accel	7g
Gun mountings	2
Missiles	1
Crew	2
Hyperdrive ranges	Class 2: 8.00 Class 3: 18.00 Class 4: 32.00
Standard drive	Class 3
Fuel scoop	Yes

Asp Explorer

The first built Asps were miltary vessels, the most common of which was the Mk II. Fitted with self destruct mechanisms if they fell into the wrong hands, the Mk II was rarely seen in private hands.

Years later, a public version, known as the Explorer was released. It was large and fast, enabling the vessel to keep up in dogfights with smaller, nimbler craft, while it was big enough to hold several shield generators and large weapons. On the downside, there was only a single missile pylon and the retro thrusters were inadequately sized. Additionally, the Asp Explorer required a second crew member, which, more often that not, turned out to be a disadvantage.

When equipped with a Class 3 military drive, the Asp was ideal for courier/passenger runs and most assassination contracts. Only being able to fit a single missile could be a disadvantage to the more adventurous combateer, particularly if they were to do a lot of classified recon or bombing missions, as they would need to keep a pylon free for a nuclear missile.

Current models are built by the Core Industrial Corporation in several Federation and Independent systems.