For an AU in which the Samarkand class is used as the base hull for a series of variants, because someone discovered that no, building new hulls for every different mission does not make your logistics easier.
(actual fluff to come later).
First of all, all models must have the same structural integrity (73), thrust (4/6) and tonnage 350k as the Block II Samarkand. Save for the troop transport model, all models carry 4 dropships. All ships will have LF batteries.
1. Light destroyer. A warship that gives up most or all fighters in return for a heavier armament, mostly NLs, oriented around anti-dropship and anti-fighter actions.
2. Troop/PWS transport. A Samarkand that carries 7 dropships as well as support their activities, whether as a raiding force or small invasion force. the weapons fit is designed mainly for self protection, relying on escorts to provide screening activities.
3. Carrier. A Samarkend built around the same design as the Block II, only with 96 fighters instead of 72, and a modern weapons fit focused around self defense/anti-dropship.
4. Gunship. As heavily armed as possible, giving up fighters for heavy weapons. NPPCs or NL's should allow at least a limited ability to strike out at extreme range, but the primary striking power will come from the more efficient NACs or SCC batteries, intended to allow the ship to run down enemies and eviscerate them.
No design should include capital missile launchers, as those will be deployed on escorting dropships.
So, anyone feel willing to give it a try?
