Dub-Class Defense Ship

“Dub” is a heavy defense ship of the Space Fleet of the Federation, specialized in close-range space combat and breakthrough of enemy battle formations. While ships of the Tavr class destroy the enemy at long range with SHYLO laser systems, the “Dub” enters battle only when the distance between ships shortens to the point where its main weapon reveals its true potential.

The “Dub’s” hull is built around a massive armored core. Frontal armor plates are significantly thicker than those of any other Hetmanate ship, and all critical systems are hidden deep within the hull. The reactor, energy storage units, command bridge, and cooling systems are duplicated, allowing the ship to continue fighting even after heavy damage.

Unlike most combat ships, the “Dub” does not attempt to evade enemy fire. Its tactics are to withstand the first exchange of blows, close in on the enemy, and deliver a devastating strike at a distance where no other ship can match its firepower.

Armament

Melta Systems

The ship’s primary weapon is the Heavy Melta Launch System, located in the bow section of the hull. Each system forms an extremely narrow jet of superheated plasma and metallic aerosol that literally burns through enemy armor.

At long ranges, Melta quickly loses effectiveness; however, once the distance closes to several tens or hundreds of kilometers, its destructive power surpasses any other ship weapon. Even heavy cruiser armor begins to melt under the continuous impact of a Melta jet, and holding the beam on a single point for several seconds can cut a through-hole in the hull.

Melta batteries are especially dangerous during boarding actions. They can cut openings in sealed bulkheads, airlocks, or external armor in seconds, opening a path for assault teams.

Secondary Armament

For protection against interceptors and torpedoes, the ship is equipped with numerous Shylo-M systems, which create a dense anti-laser and anti-missile screen around it. Their role is not to engage large ships, but to ensure that the “Dub” can safely close the distance to the enemy.

Tactical Employment

The “Dub” almost never fights alone. It typically advances under the cover of Tavr-class ships, which conduct long-range combat and force the enemy to maneuver. When battle formations close in, the “Dub” moves forward and assumes the role of the fleet’s ram.

While the enemy concentrates fire on other ships of the squadron, the “Dub” closes the distance, then opens fire with Melta systems. Its attack does not last long, but it often decides the outcome of the battle. A single breach in the enemy’s formation allows other Hetmanate ships to complete the destruction of the enemy fleet.

Disadvantages

The main weakness of the “Dub” is its dependence on close range. Before entering the effective range of the Melta, it is forced to endure prolonged bombardment from long-range ships. In addition, the operation of Melta systems requires an enormous amount of energy and creates a colossal thermal load. After an intense attack, the ship is often forced to temporarily withdraw to cool the emitters and accumulate energy for the next assault.

In the Hetmanate fleet, it is said that if the “Tavr” wins the battle, the “Dub” puts an end to it.

“Where the ‘Dub’ enters battle, armor ceases to be protection.”