Trying to ignore the fact that Rogue One was released over 6 years ago and conscious that this vessel still feels box fresh, StarWars.com take a closer look at the U-Wing, arguably the most OT-like vehicle unveiled in the modern era and a vessel that was integral to the Rebellions war efforts in the years leading up to and during the Galactic Civil War.
Specs and Features
The U-wing is one of the last original designs to emerge from the Incom Corporation before the eventual emergence of the Empire. These vessels never received a full production run off the assembly line, making them a rarity. If not for some clever record manipulation by Bail Organa, they might not have found their way into the service of the Rebellion. These rare vehicles are highly valued for their versatility and function and are crucial to some early integral victories against the might of the Imperial fleet.
The U-wing is a unique swing-wing vessel built and designed for two primary objectives: delivering troops to battle in heavy-fire combat zones and as air support close to the surface of planets. It is the largest of the starfighters used by the Rebellion with a length of eighty-two feet (twenty-five meters). U-wings features a Class 1 hyperdrive, which is significantly powerful but also consumes large amounts of fuel, making it ineffective for distance combat. They tend to stay out of sight after a drop-off so that each ship can conserve its fuel supply.
Because of the ship’s build, it handles like a repulsor craft and is prized for its high maneuverability and offensive capabilities. The bottom can be customized to hold several different guns, including two laser cannons and one repeating ion blaster. When the wings are forward, it is in non-attack mode. At top speed, the U-wing can reach a top speed of 950 kph (590 mph).
