We'll get one more spec up here before term end. I introduce another new designer to our lovely department, Robert Archer! Welcome Robert!

First review note: Watch out for Microsoft formatting of paragraphs. I ran into this with another spec, and I'm not going down and making all the line breaks again. You (all of you) need to make sure you have actual line breaks in between headings and paragraphs, not just Microsoft formatted paragraph spacing. If you don't know what this means, copy and paste your document to notepad and put in the line breaks manually.

Flandor-Class
CATEGORY: Frigate
VARIANT: Heavy
DESIGNER: Robert Archer
Mark I
Draft 1
DATE: 12 November 2009
REFERENCED URLs:
HISTORY AND MISSION OVERVIEW
In the late 2330's with heightened tensions coming from Orion and Gorn forces near the Federation borders. Starfleet saw the need for a versatile, cheap to build, fast, and heavily armed frigate. While other ships designs were in consideration one enterprising young ensign by the name of Tom Mullans, submitted to Starfleet the idea of the Flandor class.

Set to utilize a compact frame of only 12 decks, with modular compartments to outfit it for more specific mission designs. Coupled with the proposed idea of a protective warp engine design. The ship was far ahead of most other designs coming out of the ship design bureau. It was however Starfleet's determination that such a ship did not meet there needs of 'cheap to build' and the project models were scrapped in favor of other designs.

Face forward twenty years. The now Commander Mullan still a member of the ship design bureau resubmitted his design for the Flandor hoping that new construction methods would allow his radical design to take flight. The newer design was proposed to house some of Starfleet's best technology. In regards to weapons, shields, and impulse engines. The feeling that was felt was that more often then not most ship to ship combat took place at sublight speeds and a heavily armed and fast frigate would suit the needs of escorting the larger ships of the line at the time, mainly the Galaxy class explorers into the more dangerous areas of unexplored space.

Starfleet accepted the new design but due to the complex design requirements of the protective warp folding design it set the project back by another series of years. Due to this when the Dominon War broke out many projects were put on hold including the Flandor.

After action reports of the war showed that Starfleet was in need of a newer frigate design, one that could handle high turns and weapon impacts similar to that of the Defiant projects. The now Fleet Captain Mullan went back to the drawing board and rewrote his internal compartment designs, drawing upon lessons learned in the war first hand by his own service. He took a page from history using the compartment design of the Titanic where in if one section of a deck were compromised bulkheads and force fields would seal off that area till repair crews could affect repairs. In addition he added two areas of mission capable modules to be easily hot swapped with minimal effort at most Starbases equipped with such ability.
The new design was finally put into construction in the year 2373 with the commissioning of the prototype Flandor. There were bugs though to work out in the design of course the biggest of which was the smooth deployment of the warp nacelles for warp flight, but thanks to installation of reinforced ISDF field generators along the pylons of both nacelles the problem was soon solved.

The Flandor is equipped for the following mission profiles
Patrol duties
Fleet actions
Pirate/Police duties
With proper mission module diplomatic hosting
With proper mission module basic scientific analysis
With proper mission module covert operations
STRUCTURE AND CONSTRUCTION
The Flandor is one of the smaller ships in Starfleet's inventory; sporting only 12 decks in appearance it has the slimmed line grace of the intrepid class. But where the warp engines would be on the Intrepid there are two small hanger like doors housing both nacelles and short stubbed pylons, which retract into the ship during sub warp maneuvers, to further protect the warp nacelles a layer of ablative armor around the nacelles, pylons, and surrounding areas that house them are covered. Aft of this housing complex for the nacelles are the impulse reactors and engines utilizing a three way injection system. Two aft of the nacelles, and one positioned aft of the bridge, this allows the Flandor a high rate of maneuvering at sub light speeds compared to other vessels of similar mass and size.
Slopping up from this compartment is the mission module swaps one port, one starboard. Forward of that is the deflector housing and two forward mounted torpedo bays, with the housing and support at drydock for a quntum torpedo launcher to be installed for war time duties. Situated as is on the Intrepid with the third set one deck above the first two on the compact neck to the upper saucer slope.
Up from there running for three decks are the crew quarters, science labs, security offices, armory, and shuttle bay. The shuttle bay is compact and quite small only able to launch one shuttle at a time and only able to support two type-9 shuttles or one Danube class runabout. The exit area for the shuttle bay would be just above where the aft torpedo bays are located on the Intrepid. Unlike the intrepid the Flandor only supports a single torpedo bay in this arc.
As mentioned before the Flandor incorporates two Mission swappable modules which are listed here.
Covert Ops module
Holds further specialized equipment for masking the ship from sensors and detection. As well as a small equipment bay for special op functions and trainings.
Diplomatic Host module
Provides two rooms on each module allowing diplomatic parties to attend. Each room has a holographic projection system installed allowing various locales to be projected if desired.
Science enhancement module
Expands the Flandor's basic sensor suite to include more intense short and long range sensors. As well as another science lab of varying types as needed/expected.
The ship possesses no way to separate, beyond the warp core and nacelle ejection systems. The hull is compromised of a mixture of Duranium and Titanium components. Duranium used along less sensitive areas where the Titanium is used in those more critical, for example the Bridge and Engineering rooms. As well as along the Impulse engines and warp nacelles.
The ship posses the ability to land on appropriate surfaces and fly through atmosphere similar to the Intrepid class though the take off time is slightly longer then the aforementioned class.
SCIENCE AND REMOTE SENSING SYSTEMS
To save on time, energy, and resources the Flandor was fitted with a basic sensor load out utilizing the proven and reliable Type-V equipment package. Given its role as a scout and escort for larger fleets more power by default is given to the long range sensors then short range.
This gives the Flandor a short range sensing range of 1.9 light years and for long range around 6.4 light years.
The Flandor has one computer core utilizing a mixture of bio-neural and isolinear systems, and operating using the standard MAJEL LCARS OS interface.
The Flandor also comes equipped with anti detection systems, and counter-intrusion access systems, put in place to shield the Flandor from sensors when running in 'Silent Running Mode' and to counter attempts to hack the ships computer systems.
There was discussion to place a holographic EMH system on board but it was felt such a system was not needed so was dropped from the final design specs, though the option of adding such at a later refit date was given for future discussion.
WARP PROPULSION SYSTEM
The Flandor utilizes a Class VI M/AM warp system in a single core configuration feeding two warp nacelles. With a cochrane rating of 1516
Due to its small size the Flandor is able to engage at a maximum warp speed of 9.6 for 12 hours, not as fast as other ships of its size and type but given that more powerful engines were overkill. The standard cruising speed of the Flandor is warp 5.0, and maximum sustainable cruising speed of warp 7.
The Flandor uses a modified swing-wing nacelle system. Due to the high risk during the Dominon war of ships taking heavy damage to there nacelles and depriving the ship of warp speed and warp power and there by escape. During all sub light actions the nacelles 'slip' into the hull of the ship itself, mounted on shorter stub pylons and smaller nacelle housings similar to what is used on the defiant and Steam runner class
IMPULSE PROPULSION SYSTEM

The Flandor uses a tri-based impulse setup. Similar to that used on the older Galaxy class explorer. The impulse engines themselves are the best the Federation has to offer though. Able to propel the ship from 0 - .35c in a short amount of time. In addition the engines are rigged for a ‘boost’ function where in upon a minute amount of antimatter is infused to the engines the ship can accelerate for a moment or so to higher speeds. Such boosts though heavily tax the impulse engines and should be used only sparingly.
TACTICAL SYSTEMS
Defensive shields
The Flandor uses a top of the line Type-VIII shield generator as its primary defensive measure. Able to crank out a maximum graviton load of 1344, with a maximum dissipation rate of 3.7 x 10^5. Though Fleet Captain Mullens argued for better shields the bureau countered his choice for the sake of cost and time for construction.
Phaser systems
The Flandor uses the reliable and quite prove Type-VII phaser array. Located in a wide strip on the dorsal and ventral areas of the hull saucer area of the ship. They are each banked with 200 emitters per strip. There are also smaller strips situated along the dorsal and ventral areas aft of the impulse engine behind the bridge. Another array is positioned on the bottom of the ship behind the deflector. And another two on ventral and dorsal areas aft of the warp nacelle housings. Unlike other fleet designs, due to the complex nature of the nacelle housings there are no strips located along the pylons. Each strip has a maximum power output of 1.3 megawatts, and a fully effective range of 75,000 km.
Mullen also argued to have the Flandor equipped with backup Type-VI strips with 100 emitters in each bank, which would be kept in a recessed bank, arrayed in the same areas of the Type-VII but due to cost and time constraints the proposal was dropped.

Torpedo Systems
The Flandor has two forward facing Mark-V Photon tubes, and one rear facing Photon as well. The original design called for a forward facing quantum torpedo launcher as well but due to space constraints and that only during war time could such be mount a compromise was made where in that the third forward facing launcher was welded into place but used as secondary storage. Only a dry dock refit would allow a quantum launcher to be used.
The Flandor carries a total of 70 torpedo casings, 25 are used for probes and another five held in reserve for either probe or torpedo use.
The Mark-V launcher as a total effect range of 350,000 km.
In addition the Flandor carries 10 Tricobalt devices for various means.

Counter Detection System
The Flandor uses a large range of counter emission systems, used to mask the ship from a variety of all known sensing equipment. This makes the Flandor suitable for covert operations work as well as forward fleet scouting. While in 'Silent Running Mode' the ships systems are diverted to only using essential power output.
Included in this system are measures taken to prevent an outside presence from gaining control of the ship through exterior or viral means.
COMMAND AND SUPPORT SYSTEMS
Being that the ship is only 12 decks space is at a premium on the Flandor.
Deck one houses the main bridge and is setup much of the same as an Intrepid class, with the exception that the aft line of consoles are removed and in there place direct access, through a door to the upper half of the first impulse engine is provided. One either side of this door way are readouts for the warp and impulse engines and the nacelle protection system, though these two stations can be reconfigured to emulate any station on the bridge. The conference room is similar as well to the Intrepid, though along the aft wall there is a miniature view screen for mission briefings. The table also comes equipped with a small holo-projector for more up close descriptions. The Captain's ready room is smaller then on the Intrepid the upper deck area removed to condense the profile of the bridge area.
Deck 2 houses all department heads offices except for the CE, CMO, and CRO. The XO's office is similar in state to the Captain's ready room but does not contain the couch and side tables nor the plusher furnishings. The XO has access to all information on current crew status and locations from a display panel in this office. The Security office and Primary Brig are also located here, the brig able to house up to four people at a time. The Security office allows the COS to monitor all shipboard security matters and contains an emergency armory housing six Type-III phaser rifles, and six Type-II hand phasers, which can only be accessed by a senior staff officer for security reasons. This allows the bridge crew easy access if needed to such hardware. Both these offices are located on the starboard side of Deck 2.
The port side of this deck also houses the CSO's and CNS offices. As with the other offices both Chief's can monitor their respective areas of expertise.
The aft area of Deck 2 also houses the upper maintenance areas of the first impulse engine and reactor.
Deck three houses the main ship's armory and limited two science labs. There setup is the standard layout given to most other ships of this size. The aft quarter of deck three houses the rest of the first impulse engine and reactor. A smaller secondary brig is also located on this deck able to house an additional two prisoners.
UTILITY SYSTEMS
Hydroponics Bay
Deck four starboard holds the ships Hydroponics bay. This bay is used to grow fresh fruit and vegetables allowing the ships galley to utilize this fresh resource.
Transporter Room and Cargo Bays
On the port side of deck four are the transporter and cargo bay one which are setup as standard for all starfleet ships. Though cargo bay one is slightly smaller then one would usually expect.
Tractor beams
Aligned at key points along the ships hull are tractor beam emitters standard setups for all Federation ships.
CREW SUPPORT SYSTEMS
Galley
The galley though small is able to where needed provide all meals and nutritional needs for the crew and visitors. A rare position on the Flandor class the Chief Rec Officer oversees all such meal preparations and ship board activities. A small office is also provided for coordinating with the various departments for any such activities.
Fore-Forward
Fore-Forward is setup much like the Mess hall on the Intrepid class, and connects directly to the Galley itself. The mess hall though only contains one food replicator for space and energy saving measures. In the center of the room is a table able to seat four people, and be setup for a variety of board games ranging from all across the known races, the ability to program in new custom games is also available, through the use of a small PADD under one side. In addition a large and open view port allows those there to take in the sights offered by the ship at present.
Sickbay
Sickbay is arranged along the forward section of Deck five underneath fore-forward. It is laid out in a curved fashion holding four bio-beds and two surgical beds. A small isolation room able to house two beings is also here. The isolation room is able to be totally disconnected from the ships life support system if needed to prevent the spread of possible disease pathogens. This room holds two bio-beds to service this function. The CMO's office is also setup between these two areas a small lab area for medical research is behind the office itself. The office allows the CMO to monitor all shipboard crew by way of there commnbadges.
Though not added to the final Flandor's design there is the ability with a dry dock refit for a EMH holo emitters to be added to sickbay if such a system is decided upon.
Replicator systems
To the port side of sickbay there lies the replicator support systems these systems are setup for the use of all crew replicators
Holsuite
To starboard side of sickbay there lies the Holosuite the designers felt that due to space saving a holo suite would save the time and energy needed for the envisioned face strike abilities of the Flandor.
Along the aft areas of this Deck are the command staff quarters.
CO's quarters
The Captains quarters are the largest on the ship but are still smaller when compared to most other ships. A bedroom, bathroom, and living area are standard with various furnishings as the CO decides upon, a series of windows views out into space. A replicator is also present.
XO's quarters
The XO's quarters are slightly smaller then the CO's having all the same expect for a combined bedroom/shower stall area.
COS/CE/CSO/CNS/CRO quarters
These quarters are smaller then the XO/CO quarters housing a combined bedroom/shower stall area, a small living area with replicator and spartan furnishings.
VIP Quarters
Similar in size to the XO's quarters these two suites are located on Deck five as well.
Crew/Passenger quarters
These quarters are on Deck eight and nine. These quarters are small housing two people each with double bunk beds, a shared shower stall. With a small work/living shared area with a replicator.
AUXILIARY SPACECRAFT SYSTEMS
Shuttlebay
The Flandor's only shuttle bay is housed on the aft area of Deck four, and houses all maintenance, storage, and launch areas needed here. The Flandor is set to carry either two Type-9 shuttle craft, or one Danube runabout as decided for the mission.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions & Structure:
Length: 345 meters
Beam (Width): 140 meters
Height: 55 meters
Decks: 12
Crew Complement:
Officers and Crew: 100
Visiting Personnel: 15
Maximum Evacuation Limit: 350

Computer Systems:
Core: Isolinear data core x1 with bioneural circuitry
Software: Starfleet Library Computer Access and Retrieval System
(LCARS)

Warp Systems:
Power Plant: One 1500+ cochrane MARA core feeding two nacelles
Cruising Velocity: Warp 6
Max. Sustainable Velocity: Warp 7
Max. Velocity: Warp 9.6 (12 hours)

Impulse Systems:
Full Impulse: 0.35c
Zero-0.35c: 4 seconds
0.35c-Zero: 8 seconds

Defensive Systems:
Shield Maximum Graviton Load (Continuous): 1344
Shield Maximum Energy Dissipation Rate: 3.7 x 10^5

Offensive Systems:
Torpedo tubes (x3)
Standard payload: 70 photon torpedoes, 5 spare
With refit optional Quntum Torpedo Launcher can be added (at GM discretion)
Tricobalt Devices: 10 each

Phaser systems
9 Type-VII phaser strips
DECK LAYOUT
Deck 1:
Bridge
Conference Room
Ready Room
Upper Impulse reactor engine access

Deck 2:
XO's Office
COS Office
CNS Office
CSO Office / Emergency Armory
Primary Brig
Maintenance areas for first impulse reactor

Deck 3:
Secondary Brig
Science Labs x2
Armory

Deck 4:
Fore-forward
Galley
Hydroponics Bay
Cargo Bay One
Transporter Room
Shuttlebay

Deck 5:
Sickbay / Isolation Room / Medical Laboratory
Replicator systems
Holosuite
CO's Quarters
XO's Quarters
CE's Quarters
CNS's Quarters
COS's Quarters
CSO's Quarters
CRO's Quarters
VIP Quarters
Aft Torpedo bay / storage

Deck 6:
Computer Core
Optional Quantum Torpedo launcher / Auxiliary Photon storage

Deck 7:
Forward torpedo launchers and storage
Deflector control
Main Engineering
Mission Modules
Nacelle storage

Deck 8:
Crew Quarters
Nacelle storage

Deck 9:
Crew quarters
Nacelle storage

Deck 10:
Upper second and third impulse reactors
Cargo Bay two
Deuterium storage

Deck 11:
Lower second and third impulse reactors
Upper landing strut storage
Antimatter Storage

Deck 12:
Lower Landing strut storage
Antimatter storage
SHIPS OF CLASS
USS Flandor, NCC-92364 [Class Ship]
USS Tipsy, NCC-92365
USS Hammerhead, NCC-92366
USS Ressen, NCC-92367
CONCLUSION
The Flandor possess some of Starfleet's most up to date weaponry packed into a tight, streamlined frame. Able to protect its primary mode of power and engines from most conventional and unconventional attacks. As well as possessing the speed and versatility for fleet maneuvers. It also provides the need of covert operations in sensitive areas.
The Flandor gives Starfleet the ability to project force with a ship that is easy to produce, cheap to replace, without endangering larger ship designs. It is also well suited to escort duties of those larger ships.
SUBMITTED: 14 November 2009

Author: Robert Archer