The Aræn NavyThe Aræn Navy is a pivotal element to the continued growth of the empire. It is heavily involved in the exploration of unknown space. It is also the defender of the empire; externally against alien encroachment on Aræi space and internally against piracy and rebellion.
The Aræn Navy is considered by the Aræn to be the pinnacle of the empire. The ships are large and house the best technology the ASA can offer, including the CENTRAL computer system, powerful assault functions and shield capabilities. The vessels are exotic shapes and shades of purple and blue, the proficiency of the master ship builders perfected to create eloquent and deadly ships of the line. Many ships now also utilize a smart A.I., giving them an edge in battle as ship functions are simultaneously carried out through one processor, though some 30% of the navy is still running on just the CENTRAL computer system, eating up large amounts of manpower and experienced personnel.
There are many types of vessels within the Aræn navy, though some, including the Imaginifer-, Quaestor- and Praefectus-class ships are the more commonly encountered vessels.
The Aræi Space AuthorityThe Aræi Space Authority, or ASA, is the organization charged with the administration of Aræn vessels in space. Its duties evolve around space exploration, colonization and trading. It is not under the control of the government, but does use the Aræn Navy in order to maintain its influence over the large trading network, for a price. It also specializes in developing space technology; indeed, it was responsible for creating smart A.I., and the CENTRAL ship system used on all the vessels in the Aræn Navy. Along with its many other duties, the ASA protects commerce lanes using the Aræn Navy, effectively defending the heart of the Imperium.
Imaginifer-class cruiserConsiderably larger then the Quaestor-class cruiser, the Imaginifer-class cruiser uses several powerful weapons systems, and as well as being ideal for transporting supplies and supporting contingents of troops, it is also deadly in battle. This vessel usually acts as a capital ship for fleets, though also acts singularly in various missions. It is approximately 5.3km in length.
Quaestor-class cruiserA ship common within the Aræn Navy, the Quaestor-class cruiser is a multifunctional ship, supporting small amounts of troops, supplies and boarding craft. Although capable of many roles, it could be seen as the frigate equivalent. These ships are strong and many, and are about 2km in length.
Praefectus-class destroyerPacked top the teeth with heavy ordinance weapons, the Praefectus-class destroyer is designed to jump right into the fight, and survive. They can receive and dish out a beating, but their shields and assortment of weapons make them slow and cumbersome, and they can be susceptible to groups of faster craft, such as frigates. They are 1.3km in length.