Viper (TRS)

This article discusses the two Viper-class fighters seen in the Re-imagined Series. Detailed information for each fighter can also be found in Viper Mark II and Viper Mark VII. For information on the Viper used in the Original Series and in Galactica 1980, see Viper (TOS).

The Viper is the Colonial Fleet's primary space superiority fighter / attack craft.

The Mark II Viper.

The advanced Mark VII Viper.

The Viper was originally introduced into Colonial service shortly before the outbreak of the Cylon War. After the war, newer models, such as the Mark VII, replaced the Mark II.

The Mark II served with distinction throughout the Cylon War, but was subsequently superseded by newer models. At the time of the renewed Cylon attack on the Twelve Colonies, the Mark VII was the front-line variant of the Viper design.

Atmospheric Operations

The Viper is designed for atmospheric as well as space-based operations. However, Vipers consume more fuel during atmospheric operations than in the vacuum of space: once in an atmosphere, the engines must run continuously to retain airflow over the wing lifting surfaces. Depending on the composition of the atmosphere itself, this can place severe strain on the Viper's engines (You Can't Go Home Again).

Vipers have a very high wing loading (a very small wing area relative to their weight) and may not handle well in an atmosphere. They must probably maintain high speed just to stay in the air. Possibly their reaction control thrusters may offset one or both of these problems.

Life Support

Viper cockpits are pressurised and heated, but they are flown with the pilot wearing a flight suit that is capable of providing full life support should ejection be required (You Can't Go Home Again). The life support systems are built-in to the back of the pilot's seat itself, together with the flight harness. Following an ejection, the back of the seat separates automatically, effectively becoming a backpack for the pilot (Act of Contrition).

Should ejection take place within an atmosphere, the life support backpack / seat back also incorporates a parachute.

Crew

• Pilot in Terrell ES 24C ejection seat. Template:Ref

See Also

• Viper Mark II: Detailed information on the older Mark II fighter.
• Viper Mark VII: Detailed information on the newer Mark VII fighter.

Sources

1. Template:NoteEjector seat details from David Bassom's Battlestar Galactica: The Official Companion.