RPV-class light destroyer (Earth-5875)

The RPV-class light destroyer is one of the classes of destroyer formerly employed by the Covenant.

Operational history
Two RPV-class light destroyers, alongside two Picket-class frigates and a CAS-class assault carrier were present at Sigma Octanus IV on July 17, 2552, resulting in a skirmish between them and the destroyer UNSC Iroquois, captained by Commander Jacob Keyes. Keyes was able to overcome the small formation by fooling the ships into firing at themselves, leading to both the RPV and the frigates to be destroyed, while the carrier retreated.

Many of these ships were used during the Great Schism.

Design details
The RPV-class destroyer features a sleek, amphibious design with sweeping contours and perfect symmetry. It possesses three bulbous protrusions, similar to those of larger Covenant ships, giving the impression of similar lethality. The RPV is capable of carrying a great number of ground forces, dropships, and support craft, as well as several Type-31 Seraphs. The "R", or Reverence, in the destroyer's three-letter classification code, "RPV", denotes that the destroyer is capable of conducting reconnaissance missions and is capable of excavating forerunner artifacts.

Armament
Though they are smaller, RPVs light destroyers generally carry the same armament as the larger CPV-class destroyer. The vessel's primary weapon is a single energy projector, which is capable of devastating even large human vessels. It is also armed with several ventrally mounted pulse laser turrets, which can be used to provide pinpoint firepower and can destroy inbound missiles. Two plasma torpedo turrets are mounted at the fore of the vessel.

Source

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