The Aggressive ReConnaissance-170 starfighter, also known simply as the ARC-170 starfighter, was a heavy-duty model of starfighter used by the Galactic Republic during the Clone Wars and was considered the latest in fighter technology. Jointly manufactured by Incom Corporation and Subpro, it continued to see usage into the reign of the Galactic Empire, but was eventually phased out by the newer TIE line, though some found their way into the hands of the Alliance to Restore the Republic.
The Aggressive ReConnaissance-170 starfighter was a multipurpose starship designed for both intense battle and longer deep-space missions. It measured 12.71 meters in length, contained a hyperdrive, and propelled itself in realspace utilizing two powerful engine systems. It was piloted by a crew of three—a pilot, co-pilot, and tail gunner, along with an astromech droid. Long-range scanners and sensors were contained in the vessel’s nose. During battle, the craft’s S-foils opened to expose heat sinks and radiators to help cool the ship, and the two main forward medium laser cannons located on the underside of its outer wings were uncommonly large and powerful.
Its laser cannons could punch through a capital ship‘s armor, and its twin blaster cannons provided a rear firing arc manned by its tail gunner. Furthermore, proton torpedo launchers increased the craft’s usefulness in ship-to-ship combat, and added to its already extensive repertoire in its ability to serve as a bomber. The ARC-170’s deflector shields dispersed the heat generated by air resistance in atmospheric flight, enabling the craft to reach hypersonic speeds.