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The '''Raptor''' is a vehicle utilized by both the [[Colonial Fleet (TRS)|Colonial military]] and government emergency service operators. A versatile craft, it is designed to perform multiple roles, but the Raptor most commonly takes part in reconnaissance and scouting operations. Three variants of this design are in use by the Colonials since the outbreak of hostilities with the Cylons.
== First Cylon War-era Variant ==
=== Overview ===
{{Ship Data
| image= Raptor Type I.png
| title= Cylon War-era Variant
| race= Colonial
| type= Military
| ftl= Unknown
| propol= * 2x movable sublight engine pods <br /> * RCS thrusters
| crew= 2 (Pilot and [[ECO]])
| cap= Approximately 5-10 passengers
| role= * Reconnaissance and surveillance <br / > * Battlefield logistics <br /> * Search and Rescue <br /> * Transport
| arm= * Ship to ship missiles <br /> * Rear [[Kinetic Energy Weapon|"Toaster Slayer" automatic cannon]]
| def= * Electronic countermeasures
| status = Decommissioned
}}
The First Cylon War-era Raptor (nicknamed "flying pillboxes" or "buses") is little changed from its later counterpart, but features a longer cabin with an aft-facing gun emplacement. This design also relies on the main sublight engines for maneuvering.
This design was considered by the Colonials to generally be slow, and an easy target for Cylon forces to attack and destroy. However, it was not impossible to eliminate enemy targets while flying one.
The Raptors of this type are eventually replaced by their modern counterparts {{TRS|Razor Flashbacks}}.
=== FTL Operations ===
It is not known if this design commonly carries [[FTL]] drives, like their later counterparts do. Ten years into the [[Cylon War|War]], circa {{BCH|42}}, [[Raptor 909]] does not carry one, however, a statement by ''{{RDM|Galactica}}'' CO [[Silas Nash]] suggests that the Colonials do utilize smaller FTL capable ships. It is possible that the FTL drive and related components were removed in order to enlarge the cabin, and to accommodate the "Toaster Slayer" aft-mounted cannon.
=== Life Support ===
The main flight deck / cabin of a Raptor is fully pressurized. However, crews operate in [[flight suit]]s and helmets to help protect them against any hull breach. The cabin can also be depressurized and used in space rescue operations.
=== Propulsion ===
*2x rotating sublight engine pods mounted aft.
*[[RCS]] points
=== Armament ===
Raptors of this era are more commonly armed that the later design. This design can be outfitted with mission specific ship to ship missiles, incorporates a rear [[Kinetic Energy Weapon|cannon]], and is equipped with electronic countermeasures for defense {{TRS|Blood and Chrome}}.
{{clear}}
===Gallery===
<gallery mode="slideshow">
Image:Cylon War Era Raptor.png|Cylon war era generation Raptor. Its sublight drives are configured differently.
Image:Cylon War Era Raptor Rear.png|Engine pods and rear view bubble.
Image:Blood and Chrome Raptor Tail Gun.png|"Toaster Slayer".
</gallery>
==Modern Raptor==
=== Overview ===
{{Ship Data
{{Ship Data
| image= Raptor-1.jpg
| image= Raptor Armed.jpg
| title= Raptor
| title= Modern Raptor
| race= Colonial
| race= Colonial
| type= Military
| type= Military
| ftl= Yes (short range)
| ftl= Yes (short range)
| propol= * 2x fixed sublight engines
| crew= 2 (Pilot and [[ECO]])
| crew= 2 (Pilot and [[ECO]])
| cap= Approximately 5-10 passengers
| cap= Approximately 5-10 passengers
| role= Reconnaissance and surveillance, electronic countermeasures support, transport
| role= * Reconnaissance and surveillance <br / > * Battlefield logistics <br /> * Search and Rescue <br /> * Transport
| weapons= Missiles and bombs (special missions only); normally unarmed
| arm= * 2x automatic cannons <br /> * 8x Ship to ship missiles <br /> * 2x rocket pods <br /> * 2x missile based [[Battery#Close-in_Weapon_Systems|CIWS]] pods <br /> * [[Communication drone|Communication drones]]
| def= * Electronic countermeasures <br /> * [[Swallow|Decoy drones]]
| length= {{Feet2Meters|28}}
| length= {{Feet2Meters|28}}
| height= {{Feet2Meters|9.5}}
| height= {{Feet2Meters|9.5}}
| weight= 50 tons ([[Miniseries]])
| weight= 50 tons <ref>In the [[Miniseries]], [[Sharon Valerii]] tells Chief Tyrol "You're not the one out there trying to bring 50 tons of Raptor onto a moving hangar deck". However, given the relatively small size of the craft, this figure seems unrealistically high. In comparison, large military helicopters like the [[w:Mil Mi-24|Mi-24 Hind]] or the [[w:CH-53 Sea Stallion|CH-53 Sea Stallion]] weigh approximately 10-15 metric tons.</ref>
| wingspan= {{Feet2Meters|18.34}}
| wingspan= {{Feet2Meters|18.34}}
| status = Destroyed
}}
}}


== Overview ==
The Raptor is usually operated by a crew of two (one pilot and one [[ECO]]), has [[Gravity in the Re-imagined series|synthetic gravity]] on board, and is controlled by means of a fly-by-wire system {{TRS|Rapture}}. It is capable of atmospheric flight and is also equipped with a short-range [[FTL]] engine, allowing it to make short faster-than-light hops. The vehicle has been a mainstay of the Colonial fleet for over 40 years, having entered service sometime prior to the twelfth year, {{BCH|40}}, of the first [[Cylon War]] ([[TRS]]: "''[[Razor Flashbacks]]''," Episode 3). Its versatility and reliability in various roles has likely prevented it from being phased out by newer Colonial craft.


The '''Raptor''' is a multi-role vehicle used by the [[Colonial Fleet]]. It is generally operated by a crew of two (one pilot, one [[ECO]]), is capable of atmospheric flight and is also equipped with a short-range [[FTL|Jump]] engine, allowing it to make short faster-than-light hops.  
As a scout, Raptors can:
*Undertake short and medium-range scans to detect electromagnetic, heat or other signatures from other vessels.
*Scan planetary surfaces for signs of life, energy output, or to locate and assess mineral deposits {{TRS|Water|The Hand of God (RDM)}}.
*Scout ahead of its parent warship in other planetary or celestial systems for any signs of hostile intent or stellar conditions prior to the parent ship's arrival {{TRS|Miniseries}}.
*Undertake [[SAR|search & rescue operations]] after an engagement with Cylon forces.


The Raptor is designed to fulfill a number of roles, the primary being that of reconnaissance / scout operations. Additionally, the Raptor can also undertake the following roles:
When scouting, Raptors can operate independently, or in concert with other Raptors and Vipers {{TRS|The Hand of God (RDM)}}.
*Airborne warning & control and electronic countermeasures platform supporting [[Viper (RDM)|Viper]] operations ([[Miniseries]], "[[33]]")
*Marine assault craft ("[[Bastille Day]]," "[[Kobol's Last Gleaming, Part II]]," "[[Pegasus (episode)|Pegasus]]")
*Ambulance / evac vehicle ([[Miniseries]])
*General purpose transport ("[[Flesh and Bone]]," "[[Tigh Me Up, Tigh Me Down]]," "[[Home, Part II]]")
*Combat [[SAR|Search and Rescue]] ("[[Fragged]]," "[[Resurrection Ship, Part II]]")


As an [[ECM]] platform, the Raptor contains a full suite of electronic countermeasure and monitoring tools, enabling it to:
As an [[ECM]] platform, the Raptor contains a full suite of electronic countermeasure and monitoring tools, enabling it to:
*Jam [[wireless]] or relay transmissions (by wireless or optically) from other spacecraft ([[Miniseries]], "[[33]]")
*Jam [[wireless]] or relay transmissions (by wireless or optically) from other spacecraft {{TRS|Miniseries|33}}.
*Scramble control signals used by guided weapons ([[Miniseries]])
*Scramble control signals used by guided weapons {{TRS|Miniseries}}.
*Undertake IFF operations for Viper squadrons ([[Miniseries]])
*Undertake IFF operations for Viper squadrons {{TRS|Miniseries}}.
 
In the role of a scout, Raptors can operate independently of, or in concert with, other Raptors and Vipers ([[The Hand of God (RDM)|The Hand of God]]). As a scout, Raptors can:


*Undertake short and medium-range scans to detect electromagnetic, heat or other signatures from other vessels
In addition to reconnaissance and scouting, the Raptor can also undertake the following roles:
*Scan planetary surfaces for signs of life, energy output, or to assess mineral or other content / location ("[[Water]]," "[[The Hand of God (RDM)|The Hand of God]]")
*Airborne warning & control and electronic countermeasures platform supporting [[Viper (RDM)|Viper]] operations {{TRS|Miniseries|33}}
*Scout ahead of its parent warship in other planetary or celestial systems for any signs of hostile intent or stellar conditions prior to the parent ship's arrival ([[Miniseries]])
*Marine assault craft {{TRS|Bastille Day|Kobol's Last Gleaming, Part II|Pegasus|Lay Down Your Burdens, Part I|Daybreak, Part II}}
*Undertake [[SAR|search & rescue operations]] after an engagement with Cylon forces.
*Ambulance / evac vehicle {{TRS|Miniseries|The Plan}}(
*General purpose transport {{TRS|Flesh and Bone|Tigh Me Up, Tigh Me Down|Home, Part II}}
*Combat Search and Rescue {{TRS|Fragged|Resurrection Ship, Part II}}
*Secure communication with other vessels {{TRS|33}}
*Launching decoy drones {{TRS|Exodus, Part II}}
*Combat assault vehicle {{TRS|A Measure of Salvation|Crossroads, Part II}}


As a transport vehicle, a Raptor is capable of carrying around eight to ten adults in addition to the two-person crew. As a marine assault vehicle, it can carry a squad of some eight marines plus their equipment ([[Bastille Day]]).
In the transport role, a Raptor is capable of carrying around eight to ten adults in addition to the two-person crew. In the assault role, it can carry a squad of some eight equipped Marines {{TRS|Bastille Day}}.
 
Due to its size and shape, Raptors aren't launched from a battlestar's [[Launch tubes|launch tube]]. Raptors launch from the forward end of a [[flight pod]].
 
Typically, a battlestar operates with a single squadron of eight to ten Raptors: one Raptor assigned to each operational Viper squadron aboard the battlestar, and potentially two "reserve" Raptors.{{citation needed}}


=== Atmospheric Operations ===
=== Atmospheric Operations ===
The Raptor is designed for atmospheric as well as space-based operations. However, a critical element to atmospheric operations is that to remain airborne is fuel: once in an atmosphere, the engines must be run constantly to retain lift surfaces. Depending on the composition of the atmosphere itself, this can place severe strain on the Raptor's engines ([[You Can't Go Home Again]]).
The Raptor is designed for atmospheric as well as space-based operations. However, a critical element for atmospheric operations is that to remain airborne requires fuel: once in an atmosphere, the engines must be run constantly to maintain lift and to hover. Depending on the composition of the atmosphere itself, this can place severe strain on the Raptor's engines {{TRS|You Can't Go Home Again}}.


Due to their overall configuration and bulk, Raptors may also suffer from poor handling at low speeds, and rely heavily on directed thrust to remain airborne.
Due to their overall configuration and bulk, Raptors may also suffer from poor handling at low speeds, and rely heavily on directed thrust to remain airborne.


=== FTL Operations ===
=== FTL Operations ===
Raptors are fitted with small, general purpose FTL drives, but unlike larger drives on capital ships, they seem to be limited to ten to twenty FTL jumps, depending in part on the amount of [[tylium (RDM)|tylium]] fuel being carried. A Raptor can also be outfitted with a [[Heavy Raider]]'s navigational computer that, when operated by a Cylon, can be used to calculate and safely make longer jumps than normal {{TRS|Lay Down Your Burdens, Part I}}.


A Raptor seems to be able to make at least ten, and probably at least 20 [[FTL]] Jumps before refueling as seen in "[[Lay Down Your Burdens, Part I]]." However, these Raptors have been carrying more than a typical amount of [[tylium|fuel]] for that mission.
After allying with the [[Cylon Civil War|Cylon rebels]], ''Galactica''{{'|s}} Raptors were updated with Cylon FTL drives to enhance their jump range {{TRS|Daybreak, Part I}}


=== Life Support ===
=== Life Support ===
The main flight deck / cabin of a Raptor is fully pressurized. However, crews operate in [[flight suit]]s and helmets to help protect them against any hull breach ([[Miniseries]]). The cabin can also be depressurized and used in space rescue operations ([[You Can't Go Home Again]]).
The main flight deck / cabin of a Raptor is fully pressurized. However, crews operate in [[flight suit]]s and helmets to help protect them against any hull breach {{TRS|Miniseries}}. The cabin can also be depressurized and used in space rescue operations. Re-pressurization takes 10 seconds ([[TRS]]: "[[You Can't Go Home Again]]," "[[A Day in the Life]]"). The forward pilot and co-pilot seats can eject in an emergency as the forward canopy is blown away prior to the ejection {{TRS|Dirty Hands}}.
 
== Technical Specifications ==
 
[[Image:Raptor-ZOIC.jpg|thumb|Colonial Raptor ©Universal (credit: Zoic Studios)]]


=== Propulsion ===
=== Propulsion ===
*2x sublight engines mounted aft
*2x fixed sublight engines mounted aft
*1x small-scale [[FTL]] system
*1x small-scale [[FTL]] system
*[[RCS]] points
*[[RCS]] points
Line 67: Line 118:
=== Armament ===
=== Armament ===


===='''Offensive:'''====
[[Image:RaptorWeapons.jpg|thumb|right|Raptor weapon pods {{TRS|Exodus, Part II}}.]]
Raptors are normally unarmed as they make for a poor general-purpose fighter. The craft can be equipped with bombs ([[Kobol's Last Gleaming, Part II]]) or missiles similar to those used on Vipers ([[Fragged]]).


===='''Defensive:'''====
====Offensive====
The Raptor's contours provide it a reduced [[DRADIS]] signature to avoid detection. In addition, the craft carry an assortment of pods to aid in communications or defense.<ref>A close-up of a Raptor display in the [[Miniseries]] (timestamp 57 m 41 sec) shows the name and number of these items.</ref>
Raptors are normally unarmed as they make for a poor general-purpose fighter. The craft have an internal weapons bay capable of holding both offensive and defensive weapons. They are also capable of carrying heavy external armaments on four wing hardpoints, two wingtip hardpoints, and two fuselage hardpoints on the sides of the Raptor's body. Known weapons carried include:
*nuclear missiles
*bombs/munitions pods
*quad racks of missiles
*multiple-tube rocket batteries mounted on the fuselage points
*dual [[Weapons in the Re-imagined Series#Viper and Cylon Raider|Kinetic Energy Weapons]]
 
====Defensive====
[[File:TRS - Miniseries - Raptor Systems Display.jpg|thumb|[[Raptor 312]] systems display with load-out status indicators {{TRS|Miniseries, Night 1}}.]]
The Raptor's contours reduce its [[DRADIS]] signature to avoid detection. In addition, the craft carries an assortment of pods to aid in communications or defense as well as electronic countermeasures such as a [[jigger]].<ref>A close-up of a Raptor display in the [[Miniseries]] (timestamp 57 m 41 sec) shows the name and number of these items.</ref>
*Up to 6 [[Swallow|decoy drones]]
*Up to 6 [[Swallow|decoy drones]]
*Up to 4 [[Communication drone|communication drones]]
*Up to 4 [[Communication drone|communication drones]]
Line 77: Line 136:
*Up to 4 chaff pods
*Up to 4 chaff pods


== Layout ==
=== Layout ===
[[Image:Raptor-1.jpg|thumb|[[Raptor 312]] leaves {{RDM|Caprica}} after the [[Fall of the Twelve Colonies]] {{TRS|Miniseries, Night 1}}.]]
The Raptor is an angular vehicle built for function, not aesthetics. The forward section consists of a flight cabin with side-by-side ejection seats for the pilot and ECO, with a large bubble canopy providing wide fields of view both forward and side. The flight cabin opens into the main compartment where a workstation containing early warning, electronic countermeasures, and other equipment is manned by the ECO when not co-piloting the craft. The main compartment features a few fold-out jump seats attached to the bulkhead, and stowage for repair kits, medical supplies, and [[Breach-sealing device|emergency pressure seals]] to deal with small hull breaches from the interior {{TRS|Miniseries}}.
[[File:TRS - Bastille Day - Raptor Attached to Astral Queen.jpg|thumb|A [[Raptor]] attaches to ''[[Astral Queen]]''{{'|s}} hull and extends its underside docking collar {{TRS|Bastille Day}}.]]
Access to the Raptor's main compartment is primarily through a large port-side hydraulic door, and a floor-mounted hatchway provides access through the deck. A pressurized docking skirt can also be extended from the underside, enabling the Raptor to dock to the hulls of other vessels. In assault missions, [[marines]] can use this skirt to breech a hull and board a hostile vessel {{TRS|Bastille Day|Daybreak, Part II}}.
 
Aft of the pressurized area are the [[FTL]] drive and main [[sublight]] engines. Port and starboard stub wings provide additional lift during atmospheric flight, and winglets reduce drag and provide step access to the wings and hull. [[RCS]] thrusters are placed throughout the craft for landing, maneuvering and stabilization {{TRS|Miniseries}}.
 
{{clear}}


The Raptor is a boxey vehicle built for purpose, not style. The forward section of the vehicle contains the flight cabin, with side-by-side seats for the pilot and ECO (who occupies the rear section of the vehicle during normal operations). This opens into the main body of the vehicle, which contains bulkhead-mounted racks of electronics equipment and sensors. A large canopy provides good forward and side visibility for the crew, which is no doubt of considerable benefit during atmospheric flight. A section of this canopy can be jettisoned in an emergency, to allow the crew to eject using the flight deck seats.{{citation needed}}
===Gallery===
<gallery mode="slideshow">
Image:Raptor front down.jpg|Zoic CGI model.
Image:Raptor back side.jpg|Zoic CGI model.
Image:Raptor port.jpg|Zoic CGI model.
Image:Raptor front canopy.jpg|Zoic CGI model.
</gallery>


A large hydraulic door mounted on the port side of the vehicle provides general ingress and egress to the vehicle. In addition, a floor-mounted hatchway provides a further point of egress. The central door is linked to a pressurized docking skirt that can be extended from the underside of a Raptor, enabling it to dock to the hulls of other vessels. In the case of an assault, [[marines]] can use the skirt to breech a hull and board a hostile vessel ([[Bastille Day]]).
{{clear}}


Aft of the pressurized area are the [[FTL]] engine and main [[sublight]] engines. Winglets on either side of the hull help to give stability during atmospheric manoeuvers. [[RCS]] thrusters are placed throughout the craft for landing, manoeuvering and stabilization ([[Miniseries]]).
==Civilian Variant==
 
=== Search and Rescue Raptor ===
{{Ship Data
| image= The Plan - Evacuation Raptor on Picon.jpeg
| title= EVAC Raptor
| race= Colonial
| type= Civilian
| ftl= Unknown
| crew= 2
| cap= Approximately 5-10 passengers
| role= VTO/L Transport
| status = Presumed destroyed
}}
A civilian "Search and Rescue" Raptor is utilized by medical facilities to airlift patients to nearby hospitals. These craft were used after the renewed Cylon attacks to evacuate injured persons from the rubble of targeted cities. After the attacks on [[Picon (RDM)|Picon]], [[John Cavil]] took an injured [[Ellen Tigh]] to one of these Raptors, which made its way to [[Rising Star (RDM)|''Rising Star'']] before escaping with ''{{RDM|Galactica}}'' at [[Ragnar]]. These craft have a red/white paint scheme which differentiates them with their military counterparts. 
 
It is presumed that the remaining fleet is destroyed or captured by Cylon forces during their occupation of the Colonies {{TRS|The Plan}}.
 
{{clear}}
 
== Alternate Variants ==
Alternate Raptors with different color schemes are in use up to the [[Fall of the Twelve Colonies]]. One such Raptor can be found in a floating dock off the coast of [[Picon]], near the [[Club Pink Moon]] that Ellen Tigh frequents before the Fall, with a two-tone green and white paint scheme {{TRS|The Plan}}.
 
{{clear}}<gallery mode="slideshow">
File:The Plan - An Evacuation Raptor Lands in the Distance Behind Tory Foster.jpeg|On {{RDM|Caprica}}, a bloodied [[Tory Foster]] leaves the wreck of her car as an [[evacuation Raptor]] makes its landing nearby {{TRS|The Plan}}.
File:EVAC Raptors.jpg|[[Tory Foster]] leaves her wrecked car as civilian search and rescue Raptors recover survivors during the [[Fall of the Twelve Colonies]] {{TRS|The Plan}}.
File:The Plan - Cavil Oversees Ellen Tigh's Rescue on Picon.jpeg|After {{RDM|Picon}} is bombarded during the [[Fall of the Twelve Colonies]], [[John Cavil]] watches as an injured [[Ellen Tigh]] is brought aboard an [[evacuation Raptor]] {{TRS|The Plan}}.
File:The Plan - Two-Tone Raptor in a Picon Harbor.jpeg|On {{RDM|Picon}}, a two-tone green and white [[Raptor]] sits on a landing platform in midst of a harbor {{TRS|The Plan}}.
</gallery>


== Notes ==
== Notes ==
*Commonly seen Raptor pilots include Lt. [[Sharon Valerii (Galactica copy)|Sharon "Boomer" Valerii]] and [[Margaret Edmondson|Margaret "Racetrack" Edmondson]] (who also serves as an ECO).
* "Raptor" is a Latin word meaning [[w:Bird of prey|bird of prey]].
*Boomer blames a malfunctioning [[Wikipedia:Gimbal|gimbal]] for a rough landing in the [[Miniseries]].
*The design of the Raptor originally began as [[:image:Raptor concept drawing.JPG|this sketch]]. "Sketches like this are great for selling a concept," explains production designer [[Richard Hudolin]]. "The Raptor is derived from an [[W:AH-64 Apache|Apache helicopter]] and we wanted to give it a retro feel, a nuts-and-bolts look, to give the impression that in its time it was the best of the best, but now its time is almost over."
*The design of the Raptor was based on the US Army's [[Wikipedia:AH-64_Apache|Apache helicopter]]. [[Ronald D. Moore]] thinks of it "as analogous to the Navy's [[Wikipedia:EA-6 Prowler|EA-6 Prowler]] (a variant of the [[Wikipedia:A-6 Intruder|A-6 Intruder]] popularized in "[[IMDB:tt0099587|Flight of the Intruder]]")."<ref name="apache">{{cite web|url=http://blog.scifi.com/battlestar/archives/2006/04/|title=RDM Battlestar Blog |accessdate=18 April 2006}}</ref>
*The design of the Raptor was based on the US Army's [[W:AH-64 Apache|Apache helicopter]]. [[Ronald D. Moore]] thinks of it "as analogous to the Navy's [[W:EA-6 Prowler|EA-6 Prowler]] (a variant of the [[W:A-6 Intruder|A-6 Intruder]] popularized in ''[[Imdb:Tt0099587|Flight of the Intruder]]'')."<ref name="apache">{{cite web|url=http://blog.scifi.com/battlestar/archives/2006/04/|title=RDM Battlestar Blog |accessdate=18 April 2006}}</ref>
*The joystick seen inside of the Raptor appears to be a [http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/gaming/pc_gaming/joysticks/devices/302&cl=us,en Logitech Attack 3].
*The usage of Raptors in both military and civilian applications suggests that the Raptor, which has seen service for over 50 years dating back to the [[First Cylon War]], has entered civilian life in the aftermath of the [[Cimtar Peace Accord|Armistice]].
 
==== Making the Raptor fly ====
[[Image:Raptor, lifted by crane.JPG|thumb|right|Shooting of the Miniseries.]]
[[Richard Hudolin]] explains: "The Raptor is made out of foam on a steel frame. We built it so that we could have people safely in there as a 100ft crane picks it up and swings it around. The actors were a little bit surprised: 'Oh, my God, it goes up that high!'"
 
It's custom-built and then it's painted. We have painters who are literally standing by on the day to add to it before the camera rolls [the wires are removed digitally later in post production]."
 
"The actors are rehearsing and we have people aging [the Raptor], adding the gunshot hits. One day we had to paint it up as if it had crashed and been on fire - the next day it had to be made pristine again." <ref>{{cite_magazine|quotes=|last=|first=|authorlink=|coauthors=|year=2004|month=October|title=Making the Raptor fly|magazine=[http://www.radiotimes.com/content/show-features/battlestar-galactica/making-the-raptor-fly/ Radio Times]|volume=|issue=|pages=|id=|url=|accessdate=}}</ref>
 
{{clear}}
 
== See Also ==
* [[List of Raptors]]


==References==
==References==
<div style="font-size:85%"><references/></div>
{{reflist}}


{{Ships}}
{{Ships}}
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[[Category:Colonial Millitary]]
[[Category:Colonial Military]]
[[Category:Colonial Millitary (RDM)]]
[[Category:Colonial Military (RDM)]]
[[Category:Raptors|*]]
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[[de:Raptor]]
[[de:Raptor]]
__FORCETOC__

Latest revision as of 04:19, 22 February 2024

The Raptor is a vehicle utilized by both the Colonial military and government emergency service operators. A versatile craft, it is designed to perform multiple roles, but the Raptor most commonly takes part in reconnaissance and scouting operations. Three variants of this design are in use by the Colonials since the outbreak of hostilities with the Cylons.

First Cylon War-era Variant

Overview

Cylon War-era Variant
Cylon War-era Variant
Race: Colonial
Type: Military
FTL: Unknown
Propulsion: * 2x movable sublight engine pods
* RCS thrusters
Crew: 2 (Pilot and ECO)
Capacity: Approximately 5-10 passengers
CO: {{{co}}}
XO: {{{xo}}}
Weapons: {{{weapons}}}
Armaments: * Ship to ship missiles
* Rear "Toaster Slayer" automatic cannon
Defenses: * Electronic countermeasures
Aircraft: {{{aircraft}}}
Aviation facilities: {{{facilities}}}
Fate: Decommissioned
Emblem: [[Image:{{{patch}}}|175px|Ship's patch]]
Other Images: Gallery
Dimensions
Length: {{{length}}}
Width: {{{width}}}
Height: {{{height}}}
Weight: {{{weight}}}
Wingspan: {{{wingspan}}}
Other: {{{otherdi}}}
Game Information
Cost: {{{construction}}}
Construction Time: {{{construction}}}
Hull Size: {{{hull size}}}
Hull: {{{hull}}}
Mobility
FTL Cooldown: {{{ftl cooldown}}} turns
Speed: {{{speed}}} m/s
Turn Rate: {{{turn rate}}}°/turn
Armor Sum
Armor Total: {{{armor total}}}
Armor Left: {{{armor left}}}
Armor Right: {{{armor right}}}
Armor Front: {{{armor front}}}
Armor Rear: {{{armor rear}}}
Armor Top: {{{armor top}}}
Armor Bottom: {{{armor bottom}}}
Armament
DRADIS Range: {{{dradis range}}} m
Processing Power: {{{processing power}}}
Munition Slots: {{{munitions}}}
Munition Cooldown Period: {{{munition cooldown}}} turns
Squadron Slots: {{{squadrons}}}
Squadron Size: {{{squadron size}}}
Special Abilities: {{{special abilities}}}
Additional Information


The First Cylon War-era Raptor (nicknamed "flying pillboxes" or "buses") is little changed from its later counterpart, but features a longer cabin with an aft-facing gun emplacement. This design also relies on the main sublight engines for maneuvering.

This design was considered by the Colonials to generally be slow, and an easy target for Cylon forces to attack and destroy. However, it was not impossible to eliminate enemy targets while flying one.

The Raptors of this type are eventually replaced by their modern counterparts (TRS: "Razor Flashbacks").

FTL Operations

It is not known if this design commonly carries FTL drives, like their later counterparts do. Ten years into the War, circa 42 BCH (58YR), Raptor 909 does not carry one, however, a statement by Galactica CO Silas Nash suggests that the Colonials do utilize smaller FTL capable ships. It is possible that the FTL drive and related components were removed in order to enlarge the cabin, and to accommodate the "Toaster Slayer" aft-mounted cannon.

Life Support

The main flight deck / cabin of a Raptor is fully pressurized. However, crews operate in flight suits and helmets to help protect them against any hull breach. The cabin can also be depressurized and used in space rescue operations.

Propulsion

  • 2x rotating sublight engine pods mounted aft.
  • RCS points

Armament

Raptors of this era are more commonly armed that the later design. This design can be outfitted with mission specific ship to ship missiles, incorporates a rear cannon, and is equipped with electronic countermeasures for defense (TRS: "Blood and Chrome").


Gallery

Modern Raptor

Overview

Modern Raptor
Modern Raptor
Race: Colonial
Type: Military
FTL: Yes (short range)
Propulsion: * 2x fixed sublight engines
Crew: 2 (Pilot and ECO)
Capacity: Approximately 5-10 passengers
CO: {{{co}}}
XO: {{{xo}}}
Weapons: {{{weapons}}}
Armaments: * 2x automatic cannons
* 8x Ship to ship missiles
* 2x rocket pods
* 2x missile based CIWS pods
* Communication drones
Defenses: * Electronic countermeasures
* Decoy drones
Aircraft: {{{aircraft}}}
Aviation facilities: {{{facilities}}}
Fate: Destroyed
Emblem: [[Image:{{{patch}}}|175px|Ship's patch]]
Other Images: Gallery
Dimensions
Length: 28 feet (8.6m)
Width: {{{width}}}
Height: 9.5 feet (2.9m)
Weight: 50 tons [1]
Wingspan: 18.34 feet (5.6m)
Other: {{{otherdi}}}
Game Information
Cost: {{{construction}}}
Construction Time: {{{construction}}}
Hull Size: {{{hull size}}}
Hull: {{{hull}}}
Mobility
FTL Cooldown: {{{ftl cooldown}}} turns
Speed: {{{speed}}} m/s
Turn Rate: {{{turn rate}}}°/turn
Armor Sum
Armor Total: {{{armor total}}}
Armor Left: {{{armor left}}}
Armor Right: {{{armor right}}}
Armor Front: {{{armor front}}}
Armor Rear: {{{armor rear}}}
Armor Top: {{{armor top}}}
Armor Bottom: {{{armor bottom}}}
Armament
DRADIS Range: {{{dradis range}}} m
Processing Power: {{{processing power}}}
Munition Slots: {{{munitions}}}
Munition Cooldown Period: {{{munition cooldown}}} turns
Squadron Slots: {{{squadrons}}}
Squadron Size: {{{squadron size}}}
Special Abilities: {{{special abilities}}}
Additional Information


The Raptor is usually operated by a crew of two (one pilot and one ECO), has synthetic gravity on board, and is controlled by means of a fly-by-wire system (TRS: "Rapture"). It is capable of atmospheric flight and is also equipped with a short-range FTL engine, allowing it to make short faster-than-light hops. The vehicle has been a mainstay of the Colonial fleet for over 40 years, having entered service sometime prior to the twelfth year, 40 BCH (60YR), of the first Cylon War (TRS: "Razor Flashbacks," Episode 3). Its versatility and reliability in various roles has likely prevented it from being phased out by newer Colonial craft.

As a scout, Raptors can:

  • Undertake short and medium-range scans to detect electromagnetic, heat or other signatures from other vessels.
  • Scan planetary surfaces for signs of life, energy output, or to locate and assess mineral deposits (TRS: "Water", "The Hand of God").
  • Scout ahead of its parent warship in other planetary or celestial systems for any signs of hostile intent or stellar conditions prior to the parent ship's arrival (TRS: "Miniseries").
  • Undertake search & rescue operations after an engagement with Cylon forces.

When scouting, Raptors can operate independently, or in concert with other Raptors and Vipers (TRS: "The Hand of God").

As an ECM platform, the Raptor contains a full suite of electronic countermeasure and monitoring tools, enabling it to:

  • Jam wireless or relay transmissions (by wireless or optically) from other spacecraft (TRS: "Miniseries", "33").
  • Scramble control signals used by guided weapons (TRS: "Miniseries").
  • Undertake IFF operations for Viper squadrons (TRS: "Miniseries").

In addition to reconnaissance and scouting, the Raptor can also undertake the following roles:

In the transport role, a Raptor is capable of carrying around eight to ten adults in addition to the two-person crew. In the assault role, it can carry a squad of some eight equipped Marines (TRS: "Bastille Day").

Atmospheric Operations

The Raptor is designed for atmospheric as well as space-based operations. However, a critical element for atmospheric operations is that to remain airborne requires fuel: once in an atmosphere, the engines must be run constantly to maintain lift and to hover. Depending on the composition of the atmosphere itself, this can place severe strain on the Raptor's engines (TRS: "You Can't Go Home Again").

Due to their overall configuration and bulk, Raptors may also suffer from poor handling at low speeds, and rely heavily on directed thrust to remain airborne.

FTL Operations

Raptors are fitted with small, general purpose FTL drives, but unlike larger drives on capital ships, they seem to be limited to ten to twenty FTL jumps, depending in part on the amount of tylium fuel being carried. A Raptor can also be outfitted with a Heavy Raider's navigational computer that, when operated by a Cylon, can be used to calculate and safely make longer jumps than normal (TRS: "Lay Down Your Burdens, Part I").

After allying with the Cylon rebels, Galactica's Raptors were updated with Cylon FTL drives to enhance their jump range (TRS: "Daybreak, Part I")

Life Support

The main flight deck / cabin of a Raptor is fully pressurized. However, crews operate in flight suits and helmets to help protect them against any hull breach (TRS: "Miniseries"). The cabin can also be depressurized and used in space rescue operations. Re-pressurization takes 10 seconds (TRS: "You Can't Go Home Again," "A Day in the Life"). The forward pilot and co-pilot seats can eject in an emergency as the forward canopy is blown away prior to the ejection (TRS: "Dirty Hands").

Propulsion

  • 2x fixed sublight engines mounted aft
  • 1x small-scale FTL system
  • RCS points

Armament

Raptor weapon pods (TRS: "Exodus, Part II").

Offensive

Raptors are normally unarmed as they make for a poor general-purpose fighter. The craft have an internal weapons bay capable of holding both offensive and defensive weapons. They are also capable of carrying heavy external armaments on four wing hardpoints, two wingtip hardpoints, and two fuselage hardpoints on the sides of the Raptor's body. Known weapons carried include:

  • nuclear missiles
  • bombs/munitions pods
  • quad racks of missiles
  • multiple-tube rocket batteries mounted on the fuselage points
  • dual Kinetic Energy Weapons

Defensive

Raptor 312 systems display with load-out status indicators (TRS: "Miniseries, Night 1").

The Raptor's contours reduce its DRADIS signature to avoid detection. In addition, the craft carries an assortment of pods to aid in communications or defense as well as electronic countermeasures such as a jigger.[2]

Layout

Raptor 312 leaves Caprica after the Fall of the Twelve Colonies (TRS: "Miniseries, Night 1").

The Raptor is an angular vehicle built for function, not aesthetics. The forward section consists of a flight cabin with side-by-side ejection seats for the pilot and ECO, with a large bubble canopy providing wide fields of view both forward and side. The flight cabin opens into the main compartment where a workstation containing early warning, electronic countermeasures, and other equipment is manned by the ECO when not co-piloting the craft. The main compartment features a few fold-out jump seats attached to the bulkhead, and stowage for repair kits, medical supplies, and emergency pressure seals to deal with small hull breaches from the interior (TRS: "Miniseries").

A Raptor attaches to Astral Queen's hull and extends its underside docking collar (TRS: "Bastille Day").

Access to the Raptor's main compartment is primarily through a large port-side hydraulic door, and a floor-mounted hatchway provides access through the deck. A pressurized docking skirt can also be extended from the underside, enabling the Raptor to dock to the hulls of other vessels. In assault missions, marines can use this skirt to breech a hull and board a hostile vessel (TRS: "Bastille Day", "Daybreak, Part II").

Aft of the pressurized area are the FTL drive and main sublight engines. Port and starboard stub wings provide additional lift during atmospheric flight, and winglets reduce drag and provide step access to the wings and hull. RCS thrusters are placed throughout the craft for landing, maneuvering and stabilization (TRS: "Miniseries").


Gallery


Civilian Variant

Search and Rescue Raptor

EVAC Raptor
EVAC Raptor
Race: Colonial
Type: Civilian
FTL: Unknown
Propulsion:
Crew: 2
Capacity: Approximately 5-10 passengers
CO: {{{co}}}
XO: {{{xo}}}
Role: VTO/L Transport
Weapons: {{{weapons}}}
Armaments: {{{arm}}}
Defenses: {{{def}}}
Aircraft: {{{aircraft}}}
Aviation facilities: {{{facilities}}}
Fate: Presumed destroyed
Emblem: [[Image:{{{patch}}}|175px|Ship's patch]]
Other Images: Gallery
Dimensions
Length: {{{length}}}
Width: {{{width}}}
Height: {{{height}}}
Weight: {{{weight}}}
Wingspan: {{{wingspan}}}
Other: {{{otherdi}}}
Game Information
Cost: {{{construction}}}
Construction Time: {{{construction}}}
Hull Size: {{{hull size}}}
Hull: {{{hull}}}
Mobility
FTL Cooldown: {{{ftl cooldown}}} turns
Speed: {{{speed}}} m/s
Turn Rate: {{{turn rate}}}°/turn
Armor Sum
Armor Total: {{{armor total}}}
Armor Left: {{{armor left}}}
Armor Right: {{{armor right}}}
Armor Front: {{{armor front}}}
Armor Rear: {{{armor rear}}}
Armor Top: {{{armor top}}}
Armor Bottom: {{{armor bottom}}}
Armament
DRADIS Range: {{{dradis range}}} m
Processing Power: {{{processing power}}}
Munition Slots: {{{munitions}}}
Munition Cooldown Period: {{{munition cooldown}}} turns
Squadron Slots: {{{squadrons}}}
Squadron Size: {{{squadron size}}}
Special Abilities: {{{special abilities}}}
Additional Information

A civilian "Search and Rescue" Raptor is utilized by medical facilities to airlift patients to nearby hospitals. These craft were used after the renewed Cylon attacks to evacuate injured persons from the rubble of targeted cities. After the attacks on Picon, John Cavil took an injured Ellen Tigh to one of these Raptors, which made its way to Rising Star before escaping with Galactica at Ragnar. These craft have a red/white paint scheme which differentiates them with their military counterparts.

It is presumed that the remaining fleet is destroyed or captured by Cylon forces during their occupation of the Colonies (TRS: "The Plan").


Alternate Variants

Alternate Raptors with different color schemes are in use up to the Fall of the Twelve Colonies. One such Raptor can be found in a floating dock off the coast of Picon, near the Club Pink Moon that Ellen Tigh frequents before the Fall, with a two-tone green and white paint scheme (TRS: "The Plan").

Notes

  • "Raptor" is a Latin word meaning bird of prey.
  • The design of the Raptor originally began as this sketch. "Sketches like this are great for selling a concept," explains production designer Richard Hudolin. "The Raptor is derived from an Apache helicopter and we wanted to give it a retro feel, a nuts-and-bolts look, to give the impression that in its time it was the best of the best, but now its time is almost over."
  • The design of the Raptor was based on the US Army's Apache helicopter. Ronald D. Moore thinks of it "as analogous to the Navy's EA-6 Prowler (a variant of the A-6 Intruder popularized in Flight of the Intruder)."[3]
  • The joystick seen inside of the Raptor appears to be a Logitech Attack 3.
  • The usage of Raptors in both military and civilian applications suggests that the Raptor, which has seen service for over 50 years dating back to the First Cylon War, has entered civilian life in the aftermath of the Armistice.

Making the Raptor fly

Shooting of the Miniseries.

Richard Hudolin explains: "The Raptor is made out of foam on a steel frame. We built it so that we could have people safely in there as a 100ft crane picks it up and swings it around. The actors were a little bit surprised: 'Oh, my God, it goes up that high!'"

It's custom-built and then it's painted. We have painters who are literally standing by on the day to add to it before the camera rolls [the wires are removed digitally later in post production]."

"The actors are rehearsing and we have people aging [the Raptor], adding the gunshot hits. One day we had to paint it up as if it had crashed and been on fire - the next day it had to be made pristine again." [4]


See Also

References

  1. In the Miniseries, Sharon Valerii tells Chief Tyrol "You're not the one out there trying to bring 50 tons of Raptor onto a moving hangar deck". However, given the relatively small size of the craft, this figure seems unrealistically high. In comparison, large military helicopters like the Mi-24 Hind or the CH-53 Sea Stallion weigh approximately 10-15 metric tons.
  2. A close-up of a Raptor display in the Miniseries (timestamp 57 m 41 sec) shows the name and number of these items.
  3. RDM Battlestar Blog (backup available on Archive.org) (in English). Retrieved on 18 April 2006.
  4. (October 2004) "Making the Raptor fly". Radio Times.