<infobox>
<title source="title1"> <default>USFI Star Falcon V</default> </title> <image source="image1">
</image> <group> <header>Overview</header> <label>Name</label> <label>Manufacturer</label> <label>Operators</label> <label>Predecessor</label> <label>Successor</label> <label>Launch</label> <label>Retirement</label> <label>In service</label> </group> <group> <header>Specifications</header> <label>Type</label> <label>Length</label> <label>Width</label> <label>Height</label> <label>Top speed</label> <label>Range</label> <label>Crew</label> </group> <group> <header>Equipment</header> <label>Power</label> <label>Armaments</label> <label>Defenses</label> <label>Misc</label> </group> </infobox>
Summary
Based on the experimental Star Falcon L concept, the USFI Star Falcon V replaced the fundamentally ancient Star Falcon IV in 2514 with a lighter and more streamlined design. The new twin-engine setup decreased production costs while still providing ample power for the vessel's primary systems. Despite 'losing' two warp cores, the Falcon V would yet deliver superior performance to the old design, thanks to improved engine efficiency and general technological advancement.
The active development of the Falcon V platform would see the implementation of rapid technological advancements in its service life, resulting in its spanning both the fifth and sixth-generations of Star Force fighters, carrying the designations F-514e and F-614e respectively.
Three distinct versions of the craft were developed during its run in response to operator requests for increased ordnance capacity and external weapons capability, and the development of applicable technologies to realize those needs, specifically munitions replication. Known as the Mk.1, Mk.2, and Mk.3, each iteration implemented improved carrying solutions. Following a short but lively run, Falcon V would be succeeded by the Falcon VI in 2517.
Mk.1
The V Mk.1s were the original Falcon V's and had no carrying capacity for external weapons.
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Star Falcon V Mk.1, note the bare ventral surface.
Mk.2
Within months of the Mk.1's initial launch, the Mk.2 Falcon V was released, implementing fore and aft bays with support for munitions replication. The bays were attached superficially to the frame In an ultimately rushed and haphazard fulfillment of Star Force's request.
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MK.2 side profile
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Mk. 2 bays, the aft bay is closed.
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Aft bay doors opened.
Mk.3
The Mk.3s were the final version of the Falcon V, produced in 2515 and featuring carrying bays purposefully built into cavities in the structure, as opposed to built off the ventral surface as in the Mk.2, delivering a sleeker form for atmospheric operations and greatly pleasing Star Force.
Experimentation with bay doors also occurred, but was not finalized. The concept would ultimately see deployment in the updated and improved design of the Falcon VI.
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Mk.3 with integrated carrying bays.
