PHOTON TORPEDO OPERATIONS

	The uses of photon torpedoes against natural and constructed 
targets are as varied as those devised for the Galaxy class shipboard phaser 
arrays. A complete examination of defensive and productive applications 
would require additional volumes dealing with specific celestial objects and 
Spacecraft Combat Maneuvers (SCMs), though the fundamentals are 
included here.

	Photon torpedoes are directed against Threat force targets at 
distances from 15 to nearly 3,500,000 kilometers from the starship. In docked 
flight, targeting data is gathered from the shipÕs various sensor systems and 
processed at FTL speeds in the main computers, then relayed through the 
Tactical bridge station to the forward and aft torpedo launchers. The 
automated reactant handling and torpedo loading into the launcher are 
managed by the tactical situation controller (TSC), in concert with the 
TA/T/TS. This dedicated section of the computer maintains regularly updated 
files of actual and simulated Threat tracking algorithms, firings, and battle 
damage reports, plus adaptive algorithms for new Threat targets. Tactical 
inputs determine the desired results from a list of basic menu choices, 
including nonstandard instructions, such as the option of computer-assisted 
manual torpedo flight control.

WEAPONS CONTROL

	In Separated Flight Mode, the main computer in the Battle Section 
accepts a total handoff of control from the Saucer Module main computers, 
switching the duplicate situation controller to full active status. This allows 
uninterrupted control of the two launcher tubes. With the Battle Section no 
longer occupying the docking cavity, the single aft-firing torpedo launcher in 
the Saucer Module is open to space. The main computer tactical situation 
controller manages the firing of this launcher, designed to defend the Saucer 
Module in the event of attack away from the Battle Section.

	Since photon torpedoes are classified as semi-autonomous 
weapons, initial firing direction is not a major concern. Most firings involve 
direct fore or aft vectors, within ten degrees of the vehicle centerline. When 
required, rapid trajectory changes may be executed following launch to 
achieve target acquisition, cruise tracking, and terminal guidance. This is 
utilized with numerous preprogrammed starship maneuvers, momentarily 
disabling Conn bridge station attitude and translational panel inputs. Targets 
within twenty-five kilometers involve launch followed immediately by a fast 
breakaway to guarantee that the starship will remain outside the explosion 
hazard radius, which is variable with yield. Sensor blinding of pursuing 
Threat vessels can be attempted by aft volley firings of four or more 
weapons. Combinations of many factors, including warp or impulse velocity 
changes, volley firing spread angles, and warhead yield are sorted and 
matched to Threat vehicles.

	Targeting is directed by the Tactical Officer following command 
authorization. Target detection and prioritization are orchestrated by the 
Tactical Officer with interactive prompts and responses from the computers. 
Torpedo sensors and guidance circuits are configured by the tactical 
situation controller to sense specific EM and subspace energies, and will 
perform homing maneuvers most suitable to the scenario. While Threat 
defenses exist against photon torpedoes, including high-energy deflector 
shields and active torpedo countermeasures, improvements in tactical 
algorithm creation routines are constantly being applied. Phaser ÒdimplingÓ 
of a Threat shield can sometimes allow torpedo penetration for detonation 
within the outer shield layers, constraining the explosion and causing almost 
total vaporization of the Threat rather than vessel fragmentation.

OTHER APPLICATIONS

	Photon torpedoes, being general energy release devices, have found 
their way into many other specialized applications. Reinforced torpedo 
casings are able to penetrate geologic formations for deep explosive 
modifications in terraforming and planetary engineering projects. Torpedoes 
are detonated as long-range sensor calibrators at both warp and sublight 
speeds. They are often used to divert or dissociate asteroidal materials 
designated as hazards to spacecraft and planets.  Æ