TIE fighter prototype

The TIE fighter prototype was the first of the TIE fighter series manufactured by Sienar Fleet Systems and designed by Raith Sienar at the behest of Grand Moff Wilhuff Tarkin and the Imperial Navy Admiralty. After receiving approval from Emperor Palpatine for a design for an unshielded craft, the Navy itemized their requirements and sent it to SFS. Sienar was inspired by the designs of Alpha-3 Nimbus-class V-wing starfighters, and the Eta-2 Actis-class light interceptors from Kuat Systems Engineering. The initial designed lacked structural reinforcement to allow for atmospheric flight. Later design upgrades added strengthened wing spars which allowed the fighter to enter a planet's atmosphere. The Navy authorized production of prototypes for both designs, and eventually decided to procure the alternate design with the bulked-up pylons.

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