The Fleet (TOS-BN)

This article has a separate continuity. This article is in the Berkley Novelizations separate continuity, which is related to the Original Series. Be sure that your contributions to this article reflect the characters and events specific to this continuity only.

The Fleet in the Berkley Novelizations continuity is described as a "ragtag fleet" of civilian vessels that follow Galactica's lead across the galaxies. The Fleet operates under a complex command structure with both military and civilian authorities, though tensions exist between civilian captains and military command.

Composition and Organization

The Fleet consists of various types of civilian vessels, including supply ships, cargo vessels, and passenger transports. Many of these ships were converted from their original purposes following the destruction of the Twelve Colonies, such as ships that were once intergalactic shuttles before the Cylon attack.

The Fleet includes both support level ships and military vessels, all of which can be placed on alert status during times of crisis. Commander Adama maintains authority over all vessels within the Fleet, though he acknowledges the concerns of all ships "under his command."

Security Operations

The Fleet operates under a comprehensive security system that includes guard patrols around the fleet perimeter. During times of elevated threat, these patrols are increased and all ships, both civilian and military, are placed on heightened alert status. Combat operations are typically conducted "just outside the fleet's border," providing protection for the civilian vessels while allowing military squadrons to engage threats.

Known Vessels

• Battlestar Galactica - Command ship and military protector of the Fleet
• Broadside - Supply ship and cargo vessel
• Rising Star - Civilian vessel with casino facilities
• Foundry ship - Civilian vessel producing replacement Vipers for the Fleet, notably the unique "Twisters"

Cultural Life

Despite the hardships of their exodus, the Fleet maintains cultural activities including theater troupes that travel between ships to provide entertainment. These performing groups play various venues throughout the Fleet, with the Galactica considered "the big time" as it represents "a command performance" aboard the command ship. The Fleet's size means that it would take "multicentons to play every single ship."

Civilian-Military Relations

The relationship between civilian ship captains and military command is often strained. Some civilian vessel commanders express resentment at being "under [Adama's] thumb" rather than simply under his command. The Fleet includes ships that serve as refuges for various types of individuals seeking to avoid attention from fleet authorities, including former prisoners and those escaping debts or other complications from civilian life.