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{{multiple}}
  
{{multiple}}
 
{{Sidebar starship class|
  
{{Sidebar starship class|
−
|Name = ''Danube'' class
 +
|name = ''Danube'' class
−
|image = USS Yangtzee Kiang on launch pad.jpg
 +
|image = NCC-73918.jpg
−
|imagecap = USS ''Yangtzee Kiang'', a ''Danube''-class runabout
 +
|caption = NCC-73918, a ''Danube''-class runabout
 
|owner = [[United Federation of Planets]]
  
|owner = [[United Federation of Planets]]
 
|operator = [[Starfleet]]
  
|operator = [[Starfleet]]
−
|Type = [[Runabout]]
+
|type = [[Runabout]]
−
|Active = [[24th century]]
+
|active = [[24th century]]
−
|Crew = 2-4
+
|crew = 2-4
−
|Speed = [[Warp factor|Warp 5]]
+
|speed = [[Warp factor|Warp 5]]
−
|Armament = 4 [[phaser array]] emitters; [[torpedo launcher]]
 +
|armament = 4 [[phaser array]] emitters; [[torpedo launcher]]
 
<!-- At least four emitters are visible on the model. -->
 
<!-- At least four emitters are visible on the model. -->
−
|Defenses = [[Deflector shield]]s
+
|defenses = [[Deflector shield]]s
−
|image2 = USS Ganges.jpg
+
|image2 = USS Ganges, 2370.jpg
−
|imagecap2 = With mission module
 +
|caption2 = With mission module
−
|image3 = USS Yukon.jpg
 +
|image3 = Runabout, aft view.jpg
−
|imagecap3 = Aft view of the ''Danube''-class USS ''Yukon''
 +
|caption3 = Aft view of the ''Danube''-class
 
}}
  
}}
−
{{aquote|You know, the rate we go through runabouts, it's a good thing the Earth has so many rivers.|[[Major]] [[Kira Nerys|Kira]]|2371|Family Business}}
 +
{{aquote|You know, the rate we go through runabouts, it's a good thing the [[Earth]] has so many [[river]]s.|[[Major]] [[Kira Nerys|Kira]]|2371|Family Business}}
−  
 
The '''''Danube''-class''', also known as a '''Runabout-class''', was a type of [[Federation]] [[runabout]] in operation during the latter half of the [[24th century]]. All runabouts assigned to [[Deep Space 9]] were named after [[river]]s on [[Earth]]. ({{DS9|Family Business}})
  
The '''''Danube''-class''', also known as a '''Runabout-class''', was a type of [[Federation]] [[runabout]] in operation during the latter half of the [[24th century]]. All runabouts assigned to [[Deep Space 9]] were named after [[river]]s on [[Earth]]. ({{DS9|Family Business}})
   
 
== History ==
  
== History ==
−
The ''Danube''-class was first commissioned by [[Starfleet]] in [[2368]] as a short-range interstellar craft. ({{DS9|Paradise}})
 +
The ''Danube''-class was first commissioned by [[Starfleet]] in [[2368]] as a small, short-range interstellar craft. ({{DS9|Paradise}})
   
−
The [[2369|following year]], the [[space station]] Deep Space 9 took on three runabouts for use in their daily operations: the {{USS|Ganges}}, the {{USS|Yangtzee Kiang}}, and the {{USS|Rio Grande}}. They were housed within landing bays situated around the habitat ring. ({{DS9|Emissary}})
 +
The [[2369|following year]], the [[space station]] Deep Space 9 took on three runabouts for use in their daily operations: the {{USS|Ganges}}, the {{USS|Yangtzee Kiang}}, and the {{USS|Rio Grande}}. They were transported to the station aboard the {{USS|Enterprise|NCC-1701-D}} and were housed within the [[landing bay]]s situated around the [[habitat ring]]. ({{DS9|Emissary}})
   
  +
In the first two years of the space station's use by Starfleet, the runabout remained the primary method of transport and defense support, as they were instrumental in discovering many new worlds and civilizations within the [[Gamma Quadrant]], as well as the [[Bajoran wormhole]] itself. ({{DS9|Emissary|Battle Lines|Vortex|The Alternate|Shadowplay}}, {{e|The Jem'Hadar}})
−
On occasion, [[Starfleet Academy]] [[cadet]]s were allowed to command [[runabout]]s during [[training vessel|training missions]]. ({{DS9|Valiant}})
  
   
  +
In mid-[[2370]], DS9 sent its runabouts into the Gamma Quadrant to make contact with the [[fleet]] of [[Skrreea]]n [[refugee]] [[Skrreean ships|ships]] that were on the other side of the [[wormhole]]. ({{DS9|Sanctuary}})
⚫
''In [[2371]] of an [[alternate timeline]], the {{class|Yellowstone}} was an upgrade to the ''Danube''-class. ({{VOY|Non Sequitur}})''
  
   
  ⚫
''In [[2371]] of an [[alternate timeline]], the {{class|Yellowstone}}, which offered an alternate form of drive than the ''Danube''-class, was introduced.'' ({{VOY|Non Sequitur}})
−
=== Use at Deep Space 9 ===
  
⚫
[[File:RunaboutBlockade.jpg|thumb|Three ''Danube''-class runabouts assigned to DS9]]
  
−
In the first two years of the space station's use by Starfleet, the runabout remained the primary method of transport and defense support.
 
   
  +
Even after DS9 took delivery of the {{USS|Defiant|2370}} in 2371, the runabouts were still widely used, and for a time, the station was equipped with at least four of these runabouts. ({{DS9|Visionary}})
−
The runabouts were instrumental in discovering many new worlds and civilizations within the [[Gamma Quadrant]], as well as the [[Bajoran wormhole]] itself. The runabouts were also utilized in fighting off [[Maquis raider]]s. ({{DS9|The Maquis, Part II|The Jem'Hadar}})
  
   
  ⚫
Just before the beginning of the [[Dominion War]], [[Elim Garak]] and [[Worf]] used a runabout to stealthily rescue crew members at [[Internment Camp 371]]. ({{DS9|In Purgatory's Shadow}}) They were also used to help defend DS9 against a Dominion fleet. ({{DS9|By Inferno's Light}}) The later were used in exercises with the [[Ninth Fleet]] in [[2374]]. ({{DS9|Change of Heart}})
⚫
Although typically customary for both seats to be turned on so that a second individual may pilot the craft in the event of an emergency, [[Commander]] [[Benjamin Sisko|Sisko]] intentionally did not illuminate the ship's controls at the other pilot's station where [[Gul]] [[Dukat]] was seated during a joint mission to the [[Volan colonies]] in the [[Demilitarized Zone]] in [[2370]]. Dukat assured Sisko that he would not "steal [his] little technical secrets." It was later revealed that despite Starfleet's best efforts, the [[Cardassian Central Command]] already possessed knowledge on the operations of this class vessel, as Dukat later stated that he "knew all about these controls before I ever came on board" and pointing out to Sisko the correct location of the [[photon launcher]] control. Dukat later noted that [[Cardassian pursuit vessel]]s were "years ahead" of the runabout design. ({{DS9|The Maquis, Part I}})
  
   
  +
[[Colonel]] [[Kira Nerys]] used a runabout to covertly travel to [[Cardassia Prime]] to aid [[Damar]]'s [[Cardassian Liberation Front|resistance movement]]. ({{DS9|Tacking Into the Wind}})
−
The runabouts were used in exercises with the [[Ninth Fleet]] in 2374. ({{DS9|Change of Heart}})
  
−  
⚫
Even after DS9 took delivery of the {{USS|Defiant|2370}} in 2371, the runabout was still widely used. Just before the beginning of the [[Dominion War]], [[Elim Garak]] and [[Worf]] used a runabout to stealthily rescue crew members at [[Internment Camp 371]]. ({{DS9|In Purgatory's Shadow}}) They were also used to help defend DS9 against a Dominion fleet. ({{DS9|By Inferno's Light}}) [[Colonel]] [[Kira Nerys]] used a runabout to covertly travel to [[Cardassia Prime]] to aid [[Damar]]'s resistance movement. ({{DS9|Tacking Into the Wind}})
  
   
 
== Technical data ==
  
== Technical data ==
  +
=== Specifications ===
  +
''Danube''-class runabouts were about a quarter the size of an {{class|Erewon}} [[personnel transport]]. ({{DS9|Paradise}}) Their overall width was 14 [[meter]]s. ({{DS9|Playing God}}) Runabouts were designed to have a maximum speed of [[warp factor|warp 5]]. ({{DS9|Dax}})
  +
{{bginfo|According to the script for {{e|Emissary}}, as the ''Rio Grande'' tows the ''[[Prakesh]]'' from the wormhole, it was revealed "''to see an incredible sight... the tiny Runabout towing out the huge Cardassian warship, at the end of a tractor beam, fifty times larger than the Starfleet vessel...''"}}
  +
  +
=== Operations ===
  +
According to [[Jadzia Dax]], runabouts "''practically fly themselves''", in fact, they were capable of operating with [[automatic helm control]], yet were easy for anyone to pilot, especially someone who had third level [[flight experience]]. ({{TNG|Timescape}}; {{DS9|Playing God}}) When asked by his father, Commander Sisko, if he could do any [[science project]] he wanted to in late 2370, [[Jake Sisko]] immediately chose, "''pilot a runabout''", but was shot down as that was "''not exactly a science project.''" ({{DS9|The Jem'Hadar}})
  +
  ⚫
Although typically customary for both seats to be enabled so that a second individual could pilot the craft in the event of an emergency, [[Commander]] [[Benjamin Sisko|Sisko]] intentionally did not illuminate the ship's controls at the other pilot's station where [[Gul]] [[Dukat]] was seated during a joint mission to the [[Volan colonies]] in the [[Demilitarized Zone]] in [[2370]]. Dukat assured Sisko that he would not "steal [his] little technical secrets." It was later revealed that despite Starfleet's best efforts, the [[Cardassian Central Command]] already possessed knowledge on the operations of this class vessel, as Dukat later stated that he "''knew all about these controls before I ever came on board''" and pointed out to Sisko the correct location of the [[photon launcher]] control. ({{DS9|The Maquis, Part I}})
  +
 
[[File:USS Rio Grande tractors the Orinoco.jpg|thumb|left|Performing a "warp tow"]]
  
[[File:USS Rio Grande tractors the Orinoco.jpg|thumb|left|Performing a "warp tow"]]
  ⚫
The ''Danube''-class runabouts were also equipped with an aft [[tractor beam]] emitter. This emitter could be used to tow starships at least as large as a {{class|Galor}}. [[Jean-Luc Picard]] once commented, in 2369, that he suspected "''that the sight of [a Cardassian] [[warship]] being towed back [from the [[Gamma Quadrant]]] by a Starfleet runabout took the [[heart]] out of their fight.''" ({{DS9|Emissary}}) They were also capable of being rigged to tow at [[warp]] velocities. ({{DS9|Paradise}}) However, they did not possess the strength necessary to haul a [[Jem'Hadar fighter]] buried under ninety meters of [[rock]] and into [[orbit]]. ({{DS9|The Ship}})
−
The innovative feature that made the runabout possible was its compact, high-performance warp propulsion system. Runabouts were designed to have a maximum speed of [[warp factor|warp 5]]. ({{DS9|Dax}}) Their overall width was 14 [[meter]]s. ({{DS9|Playing God}}) In all, they were about a quarter the size of an {{class|Erewon}} [[personnel transport]]. ({{DS9|Paradise}})
  
  +
  +
A runabout did not possess the ability to generate a [[subspace isolation field]] of the [[magnitude]] required to lock on and surround the [[warp core]] of a {{class|Galaxy}} in order to beam it into [[space]]. ({{TNG|Timescape}})
  +
  ⚫
The [[hull]] of a ''Danube''-class ship was made up of metallic composites that could interact with [[magnetism|magnetic fields]]. Lost ships could be found by using a [[differential magnetometer]] to detect fluctuations in the [[hysteresis curve]]. ({{DS9|Battle Lines}}) In the case of low power, each runabout had a contingency [[fuel cell]] to provide an emergency supply of power. The vessels also had the ability to eject their [[antimatter pod]]s if so needed. ({{DS9|Battle Lines}})
  +
  +
A runabout could be modified so as to prevent [[sensor]]s from picking up its [[power signature]] by modulating the engine's power emissions, reconfiguring the [[deflector shield grid]], and installing [[field buffer]]s around the [[subspace emitter coil]]. If done properly, it could be made to appear as a [[Lissepian transport]]. However, if not done correctly, the field buffers would distort the runabout's power signature, causing it to appear to outside scans as to be operating with malfunctioning [[subspace field emitter]]s, a malfunction that could be passed off as problematic [[phase modulator]]s. ({{DS9|The Homecoming}})
  +
  +
=== Defensive systems ===
  ⚫
For defense, the runabouts were armed with [[phaser]]s and [[photon torpedo]]es. The torpedo launcher assembly was accessible via a hatch on the floor of the forward cabin. ({{DS9|Past Prologue}}) In late 2370, [[Chief]] [[Miles O'Brien]] of Deep Space 9 began [[retrofit]]ting the weapon systems of the runabouts {{USS|Mekong}} and {{USS|Orinoco}} with extra banks of photon torpedoes in preparation to the Federation's [[Dominion cold war#First Contact|first engagement]] with the [[Dominion]]. ({{DS9|The Jem'Hadar}}) He also made some modifications to the [[phaser array]]s and [[shield generator]]s of the station's runabouts. ({{DS9|Hippocratic Oath}})
   
  +
As DS9's original lifeline to the rest of the Alpha Quadrant, the runabouts often dealt with many skirmishes on the frontier. They were utilized in fighting off [[Maquis raider]]s. ({{DS9|The Maquis, Part II}}) Sisko believed that a runabout could handle a [[Bajoran interceptor|Bajoran patrol]]. ({{DS9|The Siege}})
⚫
The ''Danube''-class runabouts were also equipped with an aft [[tractor beam]] emitter. This emitter could be used to tow starships at least as large as a {{class|Galor}}. ({{DS9|Emissary}}) It was also capable of being rigged to tow at [[warp]] velocities. ({{DS9|Paradise}})
  
   
  +
They were not, however, a match against a [[T'Lani cruiser]]. ({{DS9|Armageddon Game}}) Nor could they outrun a [[Theta class starship|''Theta''-class starship]] or a [[Klaestron starship]]. ({{DS9|Dax|Vortex}}) According to Gul Dukat, [[Cardassian pursuit vessel]]s were "years ahead" of the runabout design. ({{DS9|The Maquis, Part I}}) Although surviving their initial engagement alongside the {{USS|Odyssey}} in a confrontation with three Jem'Hadar fighters, alone they were no match for a {{dis|wing|unit}} of said fighters. ({{DS9|The Die is Cast|Valiant}}) Nevertheless, with proper instruction, a runabout had the ability to destroy a Jem'Hadar fighter if allowed to get past the enemy ship's defenses. ({{DS9|Treachery, Faith and the Great River}})
⚫
For defense, the runabout was armed with [[phaser]]s and [[photon torpedo]]es. The torpedo launcher assembly was accessible via a hatch on the floor of the forward cabin. ({{DS9|Past Prologue}}) In late 2370, [[Chief]] [[Miles O'Brien]] of Deep Space 9 began [[retrofit]]ting the weapon systems of the runabouts {{USS|Mekong}} and {{USS|Orinoco}} with extra banks of photon torpedoes in preparation to the Federation's [[Dominion cold war#First Contact|first engagement]] with the [[Dominion]]. ({{DS9|The Jem'Hadar}}) He also made some modifications to the [[phaser array]]s and [[shield generator]]s of the station's runabouts. ({{DS9|Hippocratic Oath}})
  
   
  +
A runabout was small enough to be able to get close enough to another ship in order to overload the other ship's shield generators with directed phaser fire. ({{DS9|The Passenger}})
⚫
The [[hull]] of a ''Danube''-class ship was made up of metallic composites that could interact with [[magnetism|magnetic fields]]. Lost ships could be found by using a [[differential magnetometer]] to detect fluctuations in the [[hysteresis curve]]. In the case of low power, the runabout had a contingency [[fuel cell]] to provide an emergency supply of power. The vessel also had the ability to eject its [[antimatter pod]] if so needed. ({{DS9|Battle Lines}})
  
   
−
== Interior configuration ==
 +
=== Interior configuration ===
 
[[File:Danube 73918 cockpit.jpg|thumb|Typical cockpit configuration of a ''Danube''-class runabout]]
  
[[File:Danube 73918 cockpit.jpg|thumb|Typical cockpit configuration of a ''Danube''-class runabout]]
 
Ideally, a runabout was piloted by two crewmembers, although one pilot would suffice. ({{DS9|The Maquis, Part I}}) The pilots' consoles faced forward upon two large portholes. The cockpit had stations for up to four crewmembers. The two large portholes were equipped with retractable blast shutters. ({{DS9|One Little Ship}}) Small square viewscreens mounted within the forward corners of the cabin were used for video communication and ship status displays. ({{DS9|Vortex}})
  
Ideally, a runabout was piloted by two crewmembers, although one pilot would suffice. ({{DS9|The Maquis, Part I}}) The pilots' consoles faced forward upon two large portholes. The cockpit had stations for up to four crewmembers. The two large portholes were equipped with retractable blast shutters. ({{DS9|One Little Ship}}) Small square viewscreens mounted within the forward corners of the cabin were used for video communication and ship status displays. ({{DS9|Vortex}})
   
−
In the original configuration, a food [[replicator]] and a compact personnel [[transporter]] were located immediately behind the cockpit stations. After the class underwent a refit as hostilities arose between the Federation and the [[Dominion]], the transporter and replicator were moved further back and a secondary tactical console was positioned in the cockpit. The transporter was capable of transporting multiple persons simultaneously. ({{DS9|Vortex}})
 +
In the original configuration, a [[food replicator]] and a compact personnel [[transporter]] were located immediately behind the cockpit stations. After the class underwent a refit as hostilities arose between the Federation and the [[Dominion]], the transporter and replicator were moved further back and a secondary tactical console was positioned in the cockpit. The transporter was capable of transporting multiple persons simultaneously. ({{DS9|Vortex}})
   
 
[[File:Danube class, aft section.jpg|thumb|The aft interior cabin area]]
  
[[File:Danube class, aft section.jpg|thumb|The aft interior cabin area]]
−
The rear of the craft could be configured as a large crew cabin complete with sleeping and dining areas for extended travel. ({{TNG|Timescape}}; {{DS9|The Jem'Hadar|Let He Who Is Without Sin...}}) This area could also be used as a cargo bay. ({{DS9|Tribunal}})
 +
The rear of the craft could be configured as a passenger cabins complete with sleeping and dining areas for extended travel. ({{TNG|Timescape}}; {{DS9|The Jem'Hadar|Let He Who Is Without Sin...|By Inferno's Light}}) This area could also be used as a [[cargo bay]]. ({{DS9|Tribunal}})
⚫
In the center of the craft, between the two wing pylons, a series of replaceable modules could be connected. These modules could be swapped to suit mission requirements. Examples of available modules included science laboratories, crew quarters, and photon or quantum torpedo bays. ({{DS9|Melora}})
  
   
  ⚫
In the center of the craft, between the two wing pylons, a series of replaceable modules could be connected. These modules could be swapped to suit mission requirements. Examples of available modules included science laboratories, crew quarters, and photon or quantum torpedo bays. ({{DS9|Melora}}) The craft was also equipped with an [[emergency unit]] for [[medical emergency|medical emergencies]]. ({{DS9|The Passenger}})
⚫
The runabout was equipped with at least one manual escape hatch, located near the front side of the vehicle. ({{DS9|Battle Lines}}) A small [[Jefferies tube]] was also present, immediately underneath the warp core that ran along the spine of the vessel. ({{DS9|Blaze of Glory}})
  
   
  +
Also carried aboard runabouts were [[medkit]]s, [[covariant oscillator]]s, [[communications probe]]s, [[portable generator]]s, and a [[stasis chamber]]. ({{DS9|Paradise|Heart of Stone|Nor the Battle to the Strong|Change of Heart}})
−
The craft could also contain an emergency unit for [[medicine|medical]] emergencies. ({{DS9|The Passenger}})
  
  +
  ⚫
The runabout was equipped with at least one manual [[emergency hatch]], located amidship on the port side of the vehicle. ({{DS9|Battle Lines}}) A small [[Jefferies tube]] was also present, immediately underneath the warp core that ran along the spine of the vessel. ({{DS9|Blaze of Glory}})
   
 
<gallery>
  
<gallery>
Line 74: Line 88:
 
File:Runabout transporter systems.jpg|The transporter control systems
  
File:Runabout transporter systems.jpg|The transporter control systems
 
File:Danube class sleeping area.jpg|The aft sleeping area
  
File:Danube class sleeping area.jpg|The aft sleeping area
  +
File:Runabout emergency hatch blown.jpg|Blown [[emergency hatch]]
  +
File:Jake's runabout departure view.jpg|Aft viewing window
 
</gallery>
  
</gallery>
   
 
== Ships commissioned ==
  
== Ships commissioned ==
  ⚫
[[File:RunaboutBlockade.jpg|thumb|Three ''Danube''-class runabouts assigned to DS9]]
 
;Named
  
;Named
−
* {{USS|Gander}} (destroyed)
 +
* {{USS|Gander}}
−
* {{USS|Ganges}} (NCC-72454) (destroyed)
 +
* {{USS|Ganges}} (NCC-72454)
−
* {{USS|Mekong}} (abandoned)
 +
* {{USS|Mekong}}
−
* {{USS|Orinoco}} (destroyed)
 +
* {{USS|Orinoco}}
 
* {{USS|Rio Grande}} (NCC-72452)
 
* {{USS|Rio Grande}} (NCC-72452)
 
* {{USS|Rubicon}} (NCC-72936)
  
* {{USS|Rubicon}} (NCC-72936)
−
* {{USS|Shenandoah}} (NCC-73024) (abandoned)
 +
* {{USS|Shenandoah}} (NCC-73024)
 
* {{USS|Volga}}
  
* {{USS|Volga}}
−
* {{USS|Yangtzee Kiang}} (destroyed)
 +
* {{USS|Yangtzee Kiang}}
−
* {{USS|Yukon}} (destroyed)
 +
* {{USS|Yukon}}
   
 
;Unnamed
  
;Unnamed
−
* [[Unnamed Danube class starships|Unnamed ''Danube''-class starships]]
 +
* [[Danube unnamed 000|Unnamed ''Danube''-class runabouts]]
−
* [[NCC-73918]]
 +
** [[NCC-73918]]
   
 
== Appendices ==
  
== Appendices ==
Line 102: Line 119:
 
** {{e|Past Prologue}}
  
** {{e|Past Prologue}}
 
** {{e|Babel}}
  
** {{e|Babel}}
−
** {{e|Q-Less}}
+
** {{e|Q-Less}} (docking port hatch only)
 
** {{e|The Passenger}}
  
** {{e|The Passenger}}
 
** {{e|Vortex}}
  
** {{e|Vortex}}
 
** {{e|Battle Lines}}
  
** {{e|Battle Lines}}
 
** {{e|The Storyteller}}
  
** {{e|The Storyteller}}
  +
** {{e|Progress}}
  +
** {{e|Dramatis Personae}}
  +
** {{e|In the Hands of the Prophets}} (archive footage)
 
** {{e|The Homecoming}}
  
** {{e|The Homecoming}}
−
** {{e|The Circle}}
 +
** {{e|The Circle}}
  +
** {{e|The Siege}} (docking port hatch only)
  +
** {{e|Cardassians}}
 
** {{e|Melora}}
  
** {{e|Melora}}
 
** {{e|The Alternate}}
  
** {{e|The Alternate}}
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** {{e|Tribunal}}
  
** {{e|Tribunal}}
 
** {{e|The Jem'Hadar}}
  
** {{e|The Jem'Hadar}}
−
** {{e|Heart of Stone}}
+
** {{e|Heart of Stone}}
 
** {{e|Visionary}}
  
** {{e|Visionary}}
 
** {{e|Improbable Cause}}
  
** {{e|Improbable Cause}}
 
** {{e|The Die is Cast}}
  
** {{e|The Die is Cast}}
−
** {{e|The Visitor}}
+
** {{e|The Visitor}}
 
** {{e|Hippocratic Oath}}
  
** {{e|Hippocratic Oath}}
 
** {{e|Indiscretion}}
  
** {{e|Indiscretion}}
Line 134: Line 156:
 
** {{e|Hard Time}}
  
** {{e|Hard Time}}
 
** {{e|The Quickening}}
  
** {{e|The Quickening}}
−
** {{e|Body Parts}}
 +
** {{e|Body Parts}}
−
** {{e|Apocalypse Rising}}
+
** {{e|Apocalypse Rising}}
 
** {{e|The Ship}}
  
** {{e|The Ship}}
  +
** {{e|Looking for par'Mach in All the Wrong Places}}
 
** {{e|Nor the Battle to the Strong}}
  
** {{e|Nor the Battle to the Strong}}
 
** {{e|The Assignment}}
  
** {{e|The Assignment}}
Line 149: Line 172:
 
** {{e|A Simple Investigation}}
  
** {{e|A Simple Investigation}}
 
** {{e|Blaze of Glory}}
  
** {{e|Blaze of Glory}}
−
** {{e|One Little Ship}}
+
** {{e|One Little Ship}}
 
** {{e|Change of Heart}}
  
** {{e|Change of Heart}}
 
** {{e|The Reckoning}}
  
** {{e|The Reckoning}}
Line 180: Line 203:
 
=== Background information ===
  
=== Background information ===
 
[[File:Runabout Modular Design.jpg|thumb|Modular design of runabout]]
  
[[File:Runabout Modular Design.jpg|thumb|Modular design of runabout]]
−
Although originally called "Runabout-class" by Benjamin Sisko in "Emissary," the official class designation is "''Danube''-class." The official name was originally mentioned in the {{ste}}, but was later seen in episodes as part of display graphics and reiterated in the ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Technical Manual]]''. The term "''Danube''-class" was first used in dialogue in {{e|Hippocratic Oath}}.
 +
Although originally called "Runabout-class" by Benjamin Sisko in "Emissary," the official class designation was "''Danube''-class." The official name was originally mentioned in the {{ste}}, but was later seen in episodes as part of display graphics and reiterated in the ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Technical Manual]]''. The term "''Danube''-class" was first used in dialogue in {{e|Hippocratic Oath}}.
   
−
Interestingly enough, the aft cabin sections were never seen in any of the ''Deep Space Nine'' episodes wherein they were a staple of the series, yet the aft cabin was featured prominently in {{e|Timescape}}, the only TNG episode in which the runabout was seen.
 +
Interestingly enough, the aft cabin sections were never seen in any of the ''Deep Space Nine'' episodes in which they were a staple, yet the aft cabin was featured prominently in {{e|Timescape}}, the only TNG episode in which the runabout appeared.
   
 
==== Studio model ====
  
==== Studio model ====
Line 194: Line 217:
   
 
According to Sternbach, the studio model of the {{class|Sydney}}, first seen in {{e|Relics}}, was to have become the basis for DS9's runabouts, before a new design was ordered. {{datalink|art/runabout.html}}
  
According to Sternbach, the studio model of the {{class|Sydney}}, first seen in {{e|Relics}}, was to have become the basis for DS9's runabouts, before a new design was ordered. {{datalink|art/runabout.html}}
  +
 
====Computer generated model====
  
====Computer generated model====
 
{| style="float:right;"
  
{| style="float:right;"
Line 202: Line 226:
 
|}
  
|}
 
[[VisionArt Design & Animation]] created a computer generated model of the runabout.
  
[[VisionArt Design & Animation]] created a computer generated model of the runabout.
  +
 
==== ''Technical Manual'' ====
  
==== ''Technical Manual'' ====
 
The following information of specifications and defenses comes exclusively from the ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Technical Manual]]'':
  
The following information of specifications and defenses comes exclusively from the ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Technical Manual]]'':
Line 214: Line 239:
 
* Impulse: Standard units
  
* Impulse: Standard units
   
−
The runabout's modular platform allowed easy configuration for a multitude of missions. Two such modules were the [[mission module]] and [[sensor pod]]. The runabout could carry four different sizes of mission modules. (''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Technical Manual]]'')
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The runabout's modular platform allowed easy configuration for a multitude of missions. Two such modules were the "mission module" and "sensor pod". The runabout could carry four different sizes of mission modules. (''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Technical Manual]]'')
   
 
The ''Technical Manual'' also states that the USS ''Danube'', registry number NX-72003, was the [[prototype]] of this class.
  
The ''Technical Manual'' also states that the USS ''Danube'', registry number NX-72003, was the [[prototype]] of this class.
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==== See also ====
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* {{USS|Nile}}
   
 
=== Apocrypha ===
  
=== Apocrypha ===
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*The ''Danube''-class Runabout is in the game ''[[Star Trek Online]]'', and can be customized with or without the rollbar.
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The ''Danube''-class runabout is in the game ''[[Star Trek Online]]'', and can be customized with or without the rollbar. It features as both a playable ship of the shuttle/fighter tier or as a hangar 'pet' launchable from other craft with hangar bays, such as [[Akira-class]] vessels.
   
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=== External link ===
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=== External link ===
  
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Revision as of 16:04, 20 November 2019

Multiple realities
(covers information from several alternate timelines)

"You know, the rate we go through runabouts, it's a good thing the Earth has so many rivers."

The Danube-class, also known as a Runabout-class, was a type of Federation runabout in operation during the latter half of the 24th century. All runabouts assigned to Deep Space 9 were named after rivers on Earth. (DS9: "Family Business")

History

The Danube-class was first commissioned by Starfleet in 2368 as a small, short-range interstellar craft. (DS9: "Paradise")

The following year, the space station Deep Space 9 took on three runabouts for use in their daily operations: the USS Ganges, the USS Yangtzee Kiang, and the USS Rio Grande. They were transported to the station aboard the USS Enterprise and were housed within the landing bays situated around the habitat ring. (DS9: "Emissary")

In the first two years of the space station's use by Starfleet, the runabout remained the primary method of transport and defense support, as they were instrumental in discovering many new worlds and civilizations within the Gamma Quadrant, as well as the Bajoran wormhole itself. (DS9: "Emissary", "Battle Lines", "Vortex", "The Alternate", "Shadowplay", "The Jem'Hadar")

In mid-2370, DS9 sent its runabouts into the Gamma Quadrant to make contact with the fleet of Skrreean refugee ships that were on the other side of the wormhole. (DS9: "Sanctuary")

In 2371 of an alternate timeline, the Yellowstone-class, which offered an alternate form of drive than the Danube-class, was introduced. (VOY: "Non Sequitur")

Even after DS9 took delivery of the USS Defiant in 2371, the runabouts were still widely used, and for a time, the station was equipped with at least four of these runabouts. (DS9: "Visionary")

Just before the beginning of the Dominion War, Elim Garak and Worf used a runabout to stealthily rescue crew members at Internment Camp 371. (DS9: "In Purgatory's Shadow") They were also used to help defend DS9 against a Dominion fleet. (DS9: "By Inferno's Light") The later were used in exercises with the Ninth Fleet in 2374. (DS9: "Change of Heart")

Colonel Kira Nerys used a runabout to covertly travel to Cardassia Prime to aid Damar's resistance movement. (DS9: "Tacking Into the Wind")

Technical data

Specifications

Danube-class runabouts were about a quarter the size of an Erewon-class personnel transport. (DS9: "Paradise") Their overall width was 14 meters. (DS9: "Playing God") Runabouts were designed to have a maximum speed of warp 5. (DS9: "Dax")

According to the script for "Emissary", as the Rio Grande tows the Prakesh from the wormhole, it was revealed "to see an incredible sight... the tiny Runabout towing out the huge Cardassian warship, at the end of a tractor beam, fifty times larger than the Starfleet vessel..."

Operations

According to Jadzia Dax, runabouts "practically fly themselves", in fact, they were capable of operating with automatic helm control, yet were easy for anyone to pilot, especially someone who had third level flight experience. (TNG: "Timescape"; DS9: "Playing God") When asked by his father, Commander Sisko, if he could do any science project he wanted to in late 2370, Jake Sisko immediately chose, "pilot a runabout", but was shot down as that was "not exactly a science project." (DS9: "The Jem'Hadar")

Although typically customary for both seats to be enabled so that a second individual could pilot the craft in the event of an emergency, Commander Sisko intentionally did not illuminate the ship's controls at the other pilot's station where Gul Dukat was seated during a joint mission to the Volan colonies in the Demilitarized Zone in 2370. Dukat assured Sisko that he would not "steal [his] little technical secrets." It was later revealed that despite Starfleet's best efforts, the Cardassian Central Command already possessed knowledge on the operations of this class vessel, as Dukat later stated that he "knew all about these controls before I ever came on board" and pointed out to Sisko the correct location of the photon launcher control. (DS9: "The Maquis, Part I")

USS Rio Grande tractors the Orinoco

Performing a "warp tow"

The Danube-class runabouts were also equipped with an aft tractor beam emitter. This emitter could be used to tow starships at least as large as a Galor-class. Jean-Luc Picard once commented, in 2369, that he suspected "that the sight of [a Cardassian] warship being towed back [from the Gamma Quadrant] by a Starfleet runabout took the heart out of their fight." (DS9: "Emissary") They were also capable of being rigged to tow at warp velocities. (DS9: "Paradise") However, they did not possess the strength necessary to haul a Jem'Hadar fighter buried under ninety meters of rock and into orbit. (DS9: "The Ship")

A runabout did not possess the ability to generate a subspace isolation field of the magnitude required to lock on and surround the warp core of a Galaxy-class in order to beam it into space. (TNG: "Timescape")

The hull of a Danube-class ship was made up of metallic composites that could interact with magnetic fields. Lost ships could be found by using a differential magnetometer to detect fluctuations in the hysteresis curve. (DS9: "Battle Lines") In the case of low power, each runabout had a contingency fuel cell to provide an emergency supply of power. The vessels also had the ability to eject their antimatter pods if so needed. (DS9: "Battle Lines")

A runabout could be modified so as to prevent sensors from picking up its power signature by modulating the engine's power emissions, reconfiguring the deflector shield grid, and installing field buffers around the subspace emitter coil. If done properly, it could be made to appear as a Lissepian transport. However, if not done correctly, the field buffers would distort the runabout's power signature, causing it to appear to outside scans as to be operating with malfunctioning subspace field emitters, a malfunction that could be passed off as problematic phase modulators. (DS9: "The Homecoming")

Defensive systems

For defense, the runabouts were armed with phasers and photon torpedoes. The torpedo launcher assembly was accessible via a hatch on the floor of the forward cabin. (DS9: "Past Prologue") In late 2370, Chief Miles O'Brien of Deep Space 9 began retrofitting the weapon systems of the runabouts USS Mekong and USS Orinoco with extra banks of photon torpedoes in preparation to the Federation's first engagement with the Dominion. (DS9: "The Jem'Hadar") He also made some modifications to the phaser arrays and shield generators of the station's runabouts. (DS9: "Hippocratic Oath")

As DS9's original lifeline to the rest of the Alpha Quadrant, the runabouts often dealt with many skirmishes on the frontier. They were utilized in fighting off Maquis raiders. (DS9: "The Maquis, Part II") Sisko believed that a runabout could handle a Bajoran patrol. (DS9: "The Siege")

They were not, however, a match against a T'Lani cruiser. (DS9: "Armageddon Game") Nor could they outrun a Theta-class starship or a Klaestron starship. (DS9: "Dax", "Vortex") According to Gul Dukat, Cardassian pursuit vessels were "years ahead" of the runabout design. (DS9: "The Maquis, Part I") Although surviving their initial engagement alongside the USS Odyssey in a confrontation with three Jem'Hadar fighters, alone they were no match for a wing of said fighters. (DS9: "The Die is Cast", "Valiant") Nevertheless, with proper instruction, a runabout had the ability to destroy a Jem'Hadar fighter if allowed to get past the enemy ship's defenses. (DS9: "Treachery, Faith and the Great River")

A runabout was small enough to be able to get close enough to another ship in order to overload the other ship's shield generators with directed phaser fire. (DS9: "The Passenger")

Interior configuration

Danube 73918 cockpit

Typical cockpit configuration of a Danube-class runabout

Ideally, a runabout was piloted by two crewmembers, although one pilot would suffice. (DS9: "The Maquis, Part I") The pilots' consoles faced forward upon two large portholes. The cockpit had stations for up to four crewmembers. The two large portholes were equipped with retractable blast shutters. (DS9: "One Little Ship") Small square viewscreens mounted within the forward corners of the cabin were used for video communication and ship status displays. (DS9: "Vortex")

In the original configuration, a food replicator and a compact personnel transporter were located immediately behind the cockpit stations. After the class underwent a refit as hostilities arose between the Federation and the Dominion, the transporter and replicator were moved further back and a secondary tactical console was positioned in the cockpit. The transporter was capable of transporting multiple persons simultaneously. (DS9: "Vortex")

Danube class, aft section

The aft interior cabin area

The rear of the craft could be configured as a passenger cabins complete with sleeping and dining areas for extended travel. (TNG: "Timescape"; DS9: "The Jem'Hadar", "Let He Who Is Without Sin...", "By Inferno's Light") This area could also be used as a cargo bay. (DS9: "Tribunal")

In the center of the craft, between the two wing pylons, a series of replaceable modules could be connected. These modules could be swapped to suit mission requirements. Examples of available modules included science laboratories, crew quarters, and photon or quantum torpedo bays. (DS9: "Melora") The craft was also equipped with an emergency unit for medical emergencies. (DS9: "The Passenger")

Also carried aboard runabouts were medkits, covariant oscillators, communications probes, portable generators, and a stasis chamber. (DS9: "Paradise", "Heart of Stone", "Nor the Battle to the Strong", "Change of Heart")

The runabout was equipped with at least one manual emergency hatch, located amidship on the port side of the vehicle. (DS9: "Battle Lines") A small Jefferies tube was also present, immediately underneath the warp core that ran along the spine of the vessel. (DS9: "Blaze of Glory")

Ships commissioned

File:RunaboutBlockade.jpg

Three Danube-class runabouts assigned to DS9

Named
Unnamed

Appendices

Appearances

Danube-class, standard design

Danube-class with pod

Background information

Runabout Modular Design

Modular design of runabout

Although originally called "Runabout-class" by Benjamin Sisko in "Emissary," the official class designation was "Danube-class." The official name was originally mentioned in the Star Trek Encyclopedia, but was later seen in episodes as part of display graphics and reiterated in the Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Technical Manual. The term "Danube-class" was first used in dialogue in "Hippocratic Oath".

Interestingly enough, the aft cabin sections were never seen in any of the Deep Space Nine episodes in which they were a staple, yet the aft cabin was featured prominently in "Timescape", the only TNG episode in which the runabout appeared.

Studio model

The Danube-class runabout was designed by Rick Sternbach and Jim Martin, and the interior cockpit set was designed by Joseph Hodges, all under the direction of Herman Zimmerman. The aft compartment was designed by Richard James. The miniature was built by Tony Meininger.

According to Sternbach, the studio model of the Sydney-class, first seen in "Relics", was to have become the basis for DS9's runabouts, before a new design was ordered. [1]

Computer generated model

VisionArt Design & Animation created a computer generated model of the runabout.

Technical Manual

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

  • Height: 5.4 meters
  • Length: 23.1 meters
  • Width: 13.7 meters
  • Crew: Up to 40 passengers
  • Phasers: 6 emitters
  • Photons: 2 launch tubes, Stock: 2 micro-photon torpedoes
  • Cruise speed: warp 2
  • Max speed: warp 5
  • Impulse: Standard units

The runabout's modular platform allowed easy configuration for a multitude of missions. Two such modules were the "mission module" and "sensor pod". The runabout could carry four different sizes of mission modules. (Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Technical Manual)

The Technical Manual also states that the USS Danube, registry number NX-72003, was the prototype of this class.

See also

Apocrypha

The Danube-class runabout is in the game Star Trek Online, and can be customized with or without the rollbar. It features as both a playable ship of the shuttle/fighter tier or as a hangar 'pet' launchable from other craft with hangar bays, such as Akira-class vessels.

External link

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