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{{at|xx}}
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{{multiple}}
 
{{Sidebar starship class|
  
{{Sidebar starship class|
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|Name = ''Vor'cha''-class
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|name = ''Vor'cha'' class
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|image = Vorcha class.jpg
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|image = K'mpec's attack cruiser.jpg
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|imagecap = Port quarter view
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|caption = Port quarter view
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|owner = [[Klingon Empire]]
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|owner = [[Klingon Empire]]<br/>[[Klingon-Cardassian Alliance]] ([[mirror universe]])
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[[Klingon-Cardassian Alliance]]
  
 
|operator = [[Klingon Defense Force]]
  
|operator = [[Klingon Defense Force]]
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|Type = [[Attack cruiser]]
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|type = [[Attack cruiser]]
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|Active = [[24th century]] ''- [[26th century]] ([[alternate timeline]])''
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|active = [[24th century]] '' &ndash; [[26th century]] ([[alternate timeline]])''
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|Decks = 26+
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|decks = 26+
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|Speed = [[warp factor|Warp 9.5+]]
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|speed = [[warp factor|Warp 9.5+]]
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|Armament = [[Disruptor cannon]]s, [[disruptor]] emitters; [[photon torpedo]] launchers
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|armament = [[Disruptor cannon]]s, [[disruptor]] emitters; [[photon torpedo]] launchers
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|Defenses = [[Deflector shield]]s, [[cloaking device]]
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|defenses = [[Deflector shield]]s, [[cloaking device]]
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|image2 = Vorcha class, aft.jpg
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|image2 = Vor'cha class, aft.jpg
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|imagecap2 = Aft view
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|caption2 = Aft view
 
|image3 = Vor'cha class, profile.jpg
  
|image3 = Vor'cha class, profile.jpg
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|imagecap3 = Profile view
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|caption3 = Profile view
 
}}
  
}}
 
The '''''Vor'cha''-class''' [[attack cruiser]] was one of the largest and most powerful mainstays of the [[Klingon Defense Force]]s during the mid- to late-[[24th century]].
 
The '''''Vor'cha''-class''' [[attack cruiser]] was one of the largest and most powerful mainstays of the [[Klingon Defense Force]]s during the mid- to late-[[24th century]].
   
 
== History ==
  
== History ==
−
[[File:Vorcha fleet, battle ds9.jpg|thumb|left|Preparing for the [[first Battle of Deep Space 9]]]]
 +
[[File:Vor'cha fleet advances on DS9.jpg |thumb|left|Preparing for the first Battle of Deep Space 9]]
−
The ''Vor'cha''-class attack cruiser first appeared around [[2367]], when it was essentially limited to the disposal of the [[Klingon Chancellor]] and various other ranking officials. The class would eventually become fully integrated into the [[Klingon Imperial Fleet]] over the next five years.
+
The ''Vor'cha''-class attack cruiser first appeared around [[2367]], when it was essentially limited to the disposal of the [[Klingon Chancellor]] and various other ranking officials, such as the [[governor]]s of Klingon colonies. The class would eventually take up general duties in the [[Klingon Defense Force]] by [[2369]]. ({{TNG|The Chase}}; {{DS9|Dramatis Personae}})
−  
⚫
For a time, one even served as the [[flagship]] of the Imperial Fleet, until the [[Negh'Var warship|''Negh'var'' warship]] was introduced in [[2371]]. ({{TNG|Reunion}}; {{DS9|The Way of the Warrior}})
  
   
 
At least one ''Vor'cha''-class entered the [[Gamma Quadrant]] through the [[Bajoran wormhole]]. ({{DS9|Dramatis Personae}})
  
At least one ''Vor'cha''-class entered the [[Gamma Quadrant]] through the [[Bajoran wormhole]]. ({{DS9|Dramatis Personae}})
   
  ⚫
In the [[mirror universe]], the [[Klingon-Cardassian Alliance]] used the ''Vor'cha''-class in their fleet. ({{DS9|Crossover|Through the Looking Glass}})
⚫
Despite the fact the class was no longer the flagship of the Imperial Fleet, they maintained a strong presence during both the [[Klingon-Cardassian War]] and [[Federation-Klingon War (2372-73)|Federation-Klingon War]] of [[2372]]-[[2373]]. They were used during the [[First Battle of Deep Space 9]] and, later that year, several were used to deploy a [[minefield]] around [[Bajoran space]]. ({{DS9|The Way of the Warrior|Sons of Mogh}})
  
  +
  ⚫
For a time, one even served as the [[flagship]] of the Imperial Fleet, until the [[Negh'Var warship|''Negh'var'' warship]] was introduced in [[2371]]. ({{TNG|Reunion}}; {{DS9|The Way of the Warrior}})
  +
  ⚫
Despite the fact the class was no longer the flagship of the Imperial Fleet, they maintained a strong presence during both the [[Klingon-Cardassian War]] and {{dis|Federation-Klingon War |2372-73}} of [[2372]]-[[2373]]. They were used during the [[First Battle of Deep Space 9]] and, later that year, several were used to deploy a [[minefield]] around [[Bajoran space]]. ({{DS9|The Way of the Warrior|Sons of Mogh}})
   
 
The class later served as capital ships during the [[Dominion War]], beginning in [[2374]]. They saw action during [[Operation Return]], the [[First Battle of Chin'toka|First]] and [[Second Battle of Chin'toka]] and the final showdown of the conflict, the [[Battle of Cardassia]]. ({{DS9|What You Leave Behind}})
 
The class later served as capital ships during the [[Dominion War]], beginning in [[2374]]. They saw action during [[Operation Return]], the [[First Battle of Chin'toka|First]] and [[Second Battle of Chin'toka]] and the final showdown of the conflict, the [[Battle of Cardassia]]. ({{DS9|What You Leave Behind}})
 
 
−
''During an [[alternate timeline|alternate]] [[26th century]], at least one ''Vor'cha''-class cruiser participated on the side of the Federation against the [[Sphere Builder]]s in the [[Battle of Procyon V]].'' ({{ENT|Azati Prime}})
 +
''During an [[alternate timeline|alternate]] [[26th century]], at least one ''Vor'cha''-class cruiser participated on the side of the Federation against the [[Sphere-Builder]]s in the [[Battle of Procyon V]].'' ({{ENT|Azati Prime}})
   
⚫
In the [[mirror universe]], the [[Klingon-Cardassian Alliance]] used the ''Vor'cha'' class in their fleet. ({{DS9|Crossover}})
  
 
== Technical data ==
  
== Technical data ==
 
The ''Vor'cha''-class was one of the more powerful ships in the [[Klingon Defense Force]]s; indeed, for a time, it was also one of the largest warships in the Empire, carrying a formidable armament and demonstrating great maneuverability considering their relatively large size. ({{DS9|The Way of the Warrior}}, etc.)
  
The ''Vor'cha''-class was one of the more powerful ships in the [[Klingon Defense Force]]s; indeed, for a time, it was also one of the largest warships in the Empire, carrying a formidable armament and demonstrating great maneuverability considering their relatively large size. ({{DS9|The Way of the Warrior}}, etc.)
   
 
=== Physical arrangement ===
  
=== Physical arrangement ===
−
[[File:Vorcha forward.jpg|thumb|Forward view]]
 +
[[File:Vor'cha class, forward.jpg|thumb|Forward view]]
 
The outboard plan of the ''Vor'cha''-class design incorporated the same basic shape and classic avian design lineage dating back over [[2150s|two hundred years]].
  
The outboard plan of the ''Vor'cha''-class design incorporated the same basic shape and classic avian design lineage dating back over [[2150s|two hundred years]].
   
 
The bridge module was separated from the main body by a thin neck that flared out into the wings, which contained the warp [[nacelle]]s. A triangular superstructure was located on the dorsal section of the ship, located above the ship's [[impulse engine]]s. ({{TNG|Reunion}}, etc.)
  
The bridge module was separated from the main body by a thin neck that flared out into the wings, which contained the warp [[nacelle]]s. A triangular superstructure was located on the dorsal section of the ship, located above the ship's [[impulse engine]]s. ({{TNG|Reunion}}, etc.)
   
−
The ''Vor'cha''-class's secondary [[hull]] was composed of [[duranium]] [[alloy]]. ({{DS9|Dramatis Personae}})
 +
The ''Vor'cha''-class' secondary [[hull]] was composed of [[duranium]] [[alloy]]. ({{DS9|Dramatis Personae}})
   
 
=== Tactical systems ===
  
=== Tactical systems ===
−
Heavily armed, ''Vor'cha''{{'}}s were mounted with a forward [[disruptor cannon]] capable of firing solid and intermittent [[disruptor]] beams, in addition to [[torpedo]]es. ({{TNG|Redemption}}; {{DS9|The Way of the Warrior|Sacrifice of Angels|What You Leave Behind}}) The ''Vor'cha''{{'}}s that were utilized by the [[Klingon-Cardassian Alliance]] in the [[mirror universe]] were additionally armed with nacelle mounted disruptor cannons. ({{DS9|Crossover}})
 +
Heavily armed, ''Vor'cha''s were mounted with a forward [[disruptor cannon]] capable of firing solid and intermittent [[disruptor]] beams, in addition to [[torpedo]]es. ({{TNG|Redemption}}; {{DS9|The Way of the Warrior|Sacrifice of Angels|What You Leave Behind}}) The ''Vor'cha''s that were utilized by the [[Klingon-Cardassian Alliance]] in the [[mirror universe]] were additionally armed with nacelle mounted disruptor cannons. ({{DS9|Crossover}})
  +
{{bginfo|One likely explanation for the vfx positioning of the disruptors was that the vessel in question was originally [[script]]ed (in "Crossover") as a Bird-of-Prey, whose wing-disruptors would otherwise correspond with said placement.''{{Star Trek Minutiae|resources/scripts/443.txt}}}}
−  
 
<gallery>
  
<gallery>
 
File:IKS Bortas firing disruptor cannon.jpg|Forward disruptor cannon (variation #1)
  
File:IKS Bortas firing disruptor cannon.jpg|Forward disruptor cannon (variation #1)
 
File:Vor'cha firing forward disruptor.jpg|Forward disruptor cannon (variation #2)
  
File:Vor'cha firing forward disruptor.jpg|Forward disruptor cannon (variation #2)
−
File:Klingon fleet, Sacrifice of Angels.jpg|Forward disruptor cannon (variation #3)
 +
File:Klingon fleet joins Operation Return.jpg|Forward disruptor cannon (variation #3)
−
File:Vor'cha firing disruptors, Crossover.jpg|Nacelle mounted disruptor cannons
 +
File:Klingon-Cardassian Alliance Vor'cha firing disruptors.jpg|Nacelle mounted disruptor cannons ([[mirror universe]])
 
</gallery>
  
</gallery>
   
−
The ''Vor'cha''{{'}}s were well reputed for having enough firepower to threaten a subterranean [[starbase|base]]. ({{DS9|Return to Grace}}) Despite this reputation, the ''Vor'cha'' does have its limitations against heavily fortified targets. During the Dominion War when [[Chancellor]] [[Gowron]] chose to attack [[Sarpedion V]], he wanted the initial strike to be lead by fifteen ''Vor'cha''-class battle cruisers "''to soften their defenses,''" however, according to [[General]] [[Martok]], fifteen battle cruisers would "''barely scratch their defenses.''" ({{DS9|Tacking Into the Wind}})
 +
The ''Vor'cha''s were well reputed for having enough firepower to threaten a subterranean [[starbase|base]]. ({{DS9|Return to Grace}}) Despite this reputation, the ''Vor'cha'' did have its limitations against heavily fortified targets. During the Dominion War when [[Chancellor]] [[Gowron]] chose to attack [[Sarpedion V]], he wanted the initial strike to be led by fifteen ''Vor'cha''-class battle cruisers "''to soften their defenses,''" however, according to [[General]] [[Martok]], fifteen battle cruisers would "''barely scratch their defenses.''" ({{DS9|Tacking Into the Wind}})
 
{{bginfo|According to a line cut from "Redemption", a ''Vor'cha'' had twice the firepower of a [[Klingon Bird-of-Prey|Bird-of-Prey]].}}
  
{{bginfo|According to a line cut from "Redemption", a ''Vor'cha'' had twice the firepower of a [[Klingon Bird-of-Prey|Bird-of-Prey]].}}
   
−
These vessels, like all [[Klingon starships]] of the time, also incorporated [[cloaking device|cloaking technology]], which protected them from detection in most evasive situations. ({{TNG|Reunion}}; {{DS9|Sons of Mogh}})
 +
These vessels, like all [[Klingon starships]] of the time, also incorporated [[cloaking technology]], which protected them from detection in most evasive situations. ({{TNG|Reunion}}; {{DS9|Sons of Mogh}})
  +
  +
=== Internal security ===
  +
''Vor'cha''-class ships were also equipped with [[security sensor]]s to detect weapons fire coming from the interior of the vessel. ({{DS9|Sons of Mogh}})
   
 
== Interior design ==
  
== Interior design ==
Line 65: Line 68:
 
The design of the main [[bridge]] of a ''Vor'cha''-class shared numerous similarities to other Klingon bridge designs.
  
The design of the main [[bridge]] of a ''Vor'cha''-class shared numerous similarities to other Klingon bridge designs.
   
−
Located in the front of the bridge, against the forward bulkhead, was the ship's main [[viewscreen]]. The [[captain's chair|command chair]] was located more forward then any of the other stations to show trust in the captain's crew, and had the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing the captain to visually monitor all bridge operations. At the rear of the bridge were several aft stations, including the [[tactical]] position. ({{TNG|Redemption}})
 +
Located in the front of the bridge, against the forward bulkhead, was the ship's main [[viewscreen]]. The [[captain's chair|command chair]] was located forward of the crew stations to show trust in the captain's crew, and had the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing the captain to visually monitor all bridge operations. At the rear of the bridge were several aft stations, including the [[tactical]] position. ({{TNG|Redemption}})
   
 
=== Ready room ===
  
=== Ready room ===
Line 97: Line 100:
   
 
== Ships of the class ==
  
== Ships of the class ==
−
[[File:Vorcha class painting.jpg|thumb|A [[painting]] of a ''Vor'cha''-class ship]]
 +
[[File:Vor'cha class painting.jpg|thumb|A [[painting]] of a ''Vor'cha''-class ship]]
−
;Named:
 +
;Named
 
*{{IKS|Bortas|Vor'cha class}}
  
*{{IKS|Bortas|Vor'cha class}}
 
*{{IKS|Drovana}}
  
*{{IKS|Drovana}}
Line 106: Line 109:
 
*{{IKS|Vor'nak}}
  
*{{IKS|Vor'nak}}
   
−
;Uncertain:
 +
;Uncertain
 
*{{IKS|Ya'Vang}}
  
*{{IKS|Ya'Vang}}
   
−
;Unnamed:
 +
;Unnamed
−
* [[Unnamed Vor'cha class starships|Unnamed ''Vor'cha''-class starships]]
 +
* [[Vor'cha unnamed 000 |Unnamed ''Vor'cha''-class starships]]
   
 
== Appendices ==
  
== Appendices ==
Line 126: Line 129:
 
* {{DS9}}
  
* {{DS9}}
 
** {{e|Dramatis Personae}}
  
** {{e|Dramatis Personae}}
  +
** {{e|Crossover}} ([[mirror universe]])
  +
** {{e|Through the Looking Glass}} (mirror universe)
 
** {{e|The Way of the Warrior}}
  
** {{e|The Way of the Warrior}}
 
** {{e|Sons of Mogh}}
  
** {{e|Sons of Mogh}}
Line 146: Line 151:
   
 
=== Background information ===
  
=== Background information ===
−
The ''Vor'cha'' first appeared in TNG's "Reunion", and was first identified by name in the ''[[Star Trek Encyclopedia]]''. The name of the class was finally made official when it was spoken in dialogue in DS9's "The Way of the Warrior", "Return to Grace", "Sons of Mogh", and "Tacking into the Wind".
+
The ''Vor'cha'' first appeared in TNG's "Reunion", and was first identified by name in the {{STE|1|157}}. The name of the class was finally made official when it was spoken in dialogue in DS9's "The Way of the Warrior", "Return to Grace", "Sons of Mogh", and "Tacking into the Wind".
   
 
According to the scripts for "Aquiel, "The Chase", "Dramatis Personae", and "Crossover", the Klingon Bird-of-Prey was intended to be used, but changed to a ''Vor'cha'' before production. This is most evident in "Crossover", where the attack cruiser was firing its disruptors from its nacelles, a location comparable to location of the turrets on a Bird-of-Prey.
  
According to the scripts for "Aquiel, "The Chase", "Dramatis Personae", and "Crossover", the Klingon Bird-of-Prey was intended to be used, but changed to a ''Vor'cha'' before production. This is most evident in "Crossover", where the attack cruiser was firing its disruptors from its nacelles, a location comparable to location of the turrets on a Bird-of-Prey.
Line 154: Line 159:
   
 
==== Size ====
  
==== Size ====
−
The size Sternbach settled on, meant that the ''Vorcha'' measured approximately 1560 feet (475,5 meter), which roughly complies with the size given in the ''Technical manual'' below. Visual Effects Supervisor [[David Stipes]] said that an overall length of 1,500 feet (457 meters) was generally used on-screen. [http://groups.google.com/group/alt.tv.star-trek.ds9/msg/f3804ef9a7be443a?hl=en]. The comparison chart drawn up by [[Gary Hutzel]] and [[Larry Nemecek]] states yet another length of 1680 feet (512 meters).[http://larrynemecek.blogspot.com/search/label/VFX]
 +
The size Sternbach settled on, meant that the ''Vorcha'' measured approximately 1560 feet (475,5 meters), which roughly complies with the size given in the ''Technical manual'' below. Visual Effects Supervisor [[David Stipes]] said that an overall length of 1,500 feet (457 meters) was generally used on-screen. [http://groups.google.com/group/alt.tv.star-trek.ds9/msg/f3804ef9a7be443a?hl=en].
   
 
==== ''Technical Manual'' ====
  
==== ''Technical Manual'' ====
Line 170: Line 175:
 
=== Apocrypha ===
  
=== Apocrypha ===
 
* The instruction sheet of [[AMT/Ertl]]'s [[Star Trek model kits|model kit]] of the ''Vor'cha'', no. 6812, based on blueprints provided by Sternbach, states that the forward part of the ship is a detachable mission specific module and interchangeable with other modules. In emergency situations it can act as a lifeboat. The model kit was designed as such.
  
* The instruction sheet of [[AMT/Ertl]]'s [[Star Trek model kits|model kit]] of the ''Vor'cha'', no. 6812, based on blueprints provided by Sternbach, states that the forward part of the ship is a detachable mission specific module and interchangeable with other modules. In emergency situations it can act as a lifeboat. The model kit was designed as such.
−
* The Vor'cha class appears in ''[[Star Trek: Armada]]'' and ''[[Star Trek: Armada II]]'' as a cruiser. Its special weapon, the [[polaron]] [[torpedo]], phased through a target's [[deflector shield|shields]] and disabled a random subsystem.
 +
* The ''Vor'cha'' class appears in ''[[Star Trek: Armada]]'' and ''[[Star Trek: Armada II]]'' as a cruiser. Its special weapon, the [[polaron]] [[torpedo]], phased through a target's [[deflector shield|shields]] and disabled a random subsystem.
−
* Although the origin of the name is never explicitly mentioned in the show or in the Star Trek Encyclopedia, ''[[the Klingon Dictionary]]'' gives the definition of the word "vor" as "cure" and the word "cha" as "torpedoes" suggesting that the name "Vor'cha" could mean something along the lines of "torpedo cure" or "to cure with torpedoes."
 +
* Although the origin of the class' name is never explicitly mentioned on screen or in the ''Star Trek Encyclopedia'', ''[[The Klingon Dictionary]]'' gives the definition of the word "vor" as "cure" and the word "cha" as "torpedoes" suggesting that the name "Vor'cha" could mean something along the lines of "torpedoes cure" or "to cure with torpedoes."
  +
* According to ''[[Star Trek: Star Charts]]'' (p. 64) and ''[[Stellar Cartography: The Starfleet Reference Library]]'' ("Federation Historical Highlights, 2161-2385"), there was a [[star system]] named Vor'cha, which might be the possible origin for the name of this class of starship, in the [[Beta Quadrant]]. This was a [[binary star system|binary]] [[star system|system]] with a [[Star Trek: Star Charts#Spectral classification|M-class]] [[star|primary]] and a B-class companion. It was the site of a historic battle.
   
 
=== External links ===
  
=== External links ===
  +
*{{mbeta||''Vor'cha'' class}}
−
*{{NCwiki}}
  
−
*{{wikipedia|Klingon starships#Vor'cha-class|Vor'cha-class}}
 +
*{{wikipedia|Klingon starships#Vor'cha-class|''Vor'cha'' class}}
   
−
[[cs:Třída_Vor'cha]]
 +
[[cs:Třída Vor'cha]]
 
[[de:Vor'cha-Klasse]]
  
[[de:Vor'cha-Klasse]]
 
[[ja:ヴォルチャ級]]
  
[[ja:ヴォルチャ級]]
  +
[[eo:Vor'Ĉa Klaso]]
 
[[Category:Klingon starship classes]]
  
[[Category:Klingon starship classes]]
  +
[[Category:Starship classes (mirror)]]

Latest revision as of 10:46, 9 November 2023

Multiple realities
(covers information from several alternate timelines)

The Vor'cha-class attack cruiser was one of the largest and most powerful mainstays of the Klingon Defense Forces during the mid- to late-24th century.

History

Vor'cha fleet advances on DS9

Preparing for the first Battle of Deep Space 9

The Vor'cha-class attack cruiser first appeared around 2367, when it was essentially limited to the disposal of the Klingon Chancellor and various other ranking officials, such as the governors of Klingon colonies. The class would eventually take up general duties in the Klingon Defense Force by 2369. (TNG: "The Chase"; DS9: "Dramatis Personae")

At least one Vor'cha-class entered the Gamma Quadrant through the Bajoran wormhole. (DS9: "Dramatis Personae")

In the mirror universe, the Klingon-Cardassian Alliance used the Vor'cha-class in their fleet. (DS9: "Crossover", "Through the Looking Glass")

For a time, one even served as the flagship of the Imperial Fleet, until the Negh'var warship was introduced in 2371. (TNG: "Reunion"; DS9: "The Way of the Warrior")

Despite the fact the class was no longer the flagship of the Imperial Fleet, they maintained a strong presence during both the Klingon-Cardassian War and Federation-Klingon War of 2372-2373. They were used during the First Battle of Deep Space 9 and, later that year, several were used to deploy a minefield around Bajoran space. (DS9: "The Way of the Warrior", "Sons of Mogh")

The class later served as capital ships during the Dominion War, beginning in 2374. They saw action during Operation Return, the First and Second Battle of Chin'toka and the final showdown of the conflict, the Battle of Cardassia. (DS9: "What You Leave Behind")

During an alternate 26th century, at least one Vor'cha-class cruiser participated on the side of the Federation against the Sphere-Builders in the Battle of Procyon V. (ENT: "Azati Prime")

Technical data

The Vor'cha-class was one of the more powerful ships in the Klingon Defense Forces; indeed, for a time, it was also one of the largest warships in the Empire, carrying a formidable armament and demonstrating great maneuverability considering their relatively large size. (DS9: "The Way of the Warrior", etc.)

Physical arrangement

Vor'cha class, forward

Forward view

The outboard plan of the Vor'cha-class design incorporated the same basic shape and classic avian design lineage dating back over two hundred years.

The bridge module was separated from the main body by a thin neck that flared out into the wings, which contained the warp nacelles. A triangular superstructure was located on the dorsal section of the ship, located above the ship's impulse engines. (TNG: "Reunion", etc.)

The Vor'cha-class' secondary hull was composed of duranium alloy. (DS9: "Dramatis Personae")

Tactical systems

Heavily armed, Vor'chas were mounted with a forward disruptor cannon capable of firing solid and intermittent disruptor beams, in addition to torpedoes. (TNG: "Redemption"; DS9: "The Way of the Warrior", "Sacrifice of Angels", "What You Leave Behind") The Vor'chas that were utilized by the Klingon-Cardassian Alliance in the mirror universe were additionally armed with nacelle mounted disruptor cannons. (DS9: "Crossover")

One likely explanation for the vfx positioning of the disruptors was that the vessel in question was originally scripted (in "Crossover") as a Bird-of-Prey, whose wing-disruptors would otherwise correspond with said placement.[1]

The Vor'chas were well reputed for having enough firepower to threaten a subterranean base. (DS9: "Return to Grace") Despite this reputation, the Vor'cha did have its limitations against heavily fortified targets. During the Dominion War when Chancellor Gowron chose to attack Sarpedion V, he wanted the initial strike to be led by fifteen Vor'cha-class battle cruisers "to soften their defenses," however, according to General Martok, fifteen battle cruisers would "barely scratch their defenses." (DS9: "Tacking Into the Wind")

According to a line cut from "Redemption", a Vor'cha had twice the firepower of a Bird-of-Prey.

These vessels, like all Klingon starships of the time, also incorporated cloaking technology, which protected them from detection in most evasive situations. (TNG: "Reunion"; DS9: "Sons of Mogh")

Internal security

Vor'cha-class ships were also equipped with security sensors to detect weapons fire coming from the interior of the vessel. (DS9: "Sons of Mogh")

Interior design

Main bridge

The design of the main bridge of a Vor'cha-class shared numerous similarities to other Klingon bridge designs.

Located in the front of the bridge, against the forward bulkhead, was the ship's main viewscreen. The command chair was located forward of the crew stations to show trust in the captain's crew, and had the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing the captain to visually monitor all bridge operations. At the rear of the bridge were several aft stations, including the tactical position. (TNG: "Redemption")

Ready room

Vor'cha ready room

Ready room

The ready room aboard a Vor'cha was designed to emphasize the prestige and prowess of the ship's captain. Along the walls, the captain displayed weapons and trophies. (TNG: "Redemption")

Armory

The armory was located in the upper half of the ship. (DS9: "Dramatis Personae")

The episode suggests that it was located somewhere between Deck 5 and 12.

Engineering

The main engineering section of the ship, which contained the reactor core, was located on Deck 26. (DS9: "Dramatis Personae")

Computer access room

The computer access room was a small, unmanned room, had computer consoles and equipment placed in a semi-circle, located in the center of the room, as well as several located along the perimeter bulkheads. The computer room allowed unobstructed access to the defense system database, as well as the computer core diagnostic and navigational control systems. Access to the computer room required DNA-based hand print verification. (DS9: "Sons of Mogh")

VIP quarters

Vor'cha crew quarters

VIP quarters

The VIP quarters aboard the Vor'cha-class was a large cabin intended for visiting dignitaries.

Lush by Klingon standards, the cabin on board the attack cruiser that transported Klingon chancellor K'mpec had walls emblazoned with weapons and decorative banners of the Empire, denoting his position. There were also several movable chairs and tables located in the center of the room. (TNG: "Reunion")

Ships of the class

Vor'cha class painting

A painting of a Vor'cha-class ship

Named
Uncertain
Unnamed

Appendices

Appearances

Background information

The Vor'cha first appeared in TNG's "Reunion", and was first identified by name in the Star Trek Encyclopedia (1st ed., p. 157). The name of the class was finally made official when it was spoken in dialogue in DS9's "The Way of the Warrior", "Return to Grace", "Sons of Mogh", and "Tacking into the Wind".

According to the scripts for "Aquiel, "The Chase", "Dramatis Personae", and "Crossover", the Klingon Bird-of-Prey was intended to be used, but changed to a Vor'cha before production. This is most evident in "Crossover", where the attack cruiser was firing its disruptors from its nacelles, a location comparable to location of the turrets on a Bird-of-Prey.

Studio model

Size

The size Sternbach settled on, meant that the Vorcha measured approximately 1560 feet (475,5 meters), which roughly complies with the size given in the Technical manual below. Visual Effects Supervisor David Stipes said that an overall length of 1,500 feet (457 meters) was generally used on-screen. [2].

Technical Manual

The following information of specifications and defenses comes exclusively from the Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Technical Manual:

  • Production Base: Qo'noS Orbital Factory Base
  • Type: Heavy Cruiser
  • Accommodation: 1,900 plus flight crew and troops
  • Power Plant: One M/A warp system; two impulse systems
  • Dimensions: Length, 481.32 meters; beam, 341.76 meters; height, 106.87 meters
  • Mass: 2,238,000 metric tonnes
  • Performance: Warp 9.6
  • Armament: Eighteen ship-mounted disruptor cannons; one large forward disruptor; three torpedo launchers

Apocrypha

  • The instruction sheet of AMT/Ertl's model kit of the Vor'cha, no. 6812, based on blueprints provided by Sternbach, states that the forward part of the ship is a detachable mission specific module and interchangeable with other modules. In emergency situations it can act as a lifeboat. The model kit was designed as such.
  • The Vor'cha class appears in Star Trek: Armada and Star Trek: Armada II as a cruiser. Its special weapon, the polaron torpedo, phased through a target's shields and disabled a random subsystem.
  • Although the origin of the class' name is never explicitly mentioned on screen or in the Star Trek Encyclopedia, The Klingon Dictionary gives the definition of the word "vor" as "cure" and the word "cha" as "torpedoes" suggesting that the name "Vor'cha" could mean something along the lines of "torpedoes cure" or "to cure with torpedoes."
  • According to Star Trek: Star Charts (p. 64) and Stellar Cartography: The Starfleet Reference Library ("Federation Historical Highlights, 2161-2385"), there was a star system named Vor'cha, which might be the possible origin for the name of this class of starship, in the Beta Quadrant. This was a binary system with a M-class primary and a B-class companion. It was the site of a historic battle.

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