and conduct scientific probes of the phenomena there, most especially the filament storms to be found - a role which gives rise to the
ubiquitous nickname of "storm-rider" for these types of ship.
The design of the Askad-Amarine itself is relatively conventional; a central slab hull with a power system beneath, fuel tanks ahead of
the power system, propulsors aft, and midspace shunts above. One unique feature is the placement of the propulsor engine radiatiors;
these point straight downwards rather than aft, allowing the radiation from them to escape the ship. However, the most unusual feature
of these ships is the heavy-duty hull modules which are
added to them. These match the contour of the ship's drivefield almost perfectly. They are heavily armoured and reinforced, to
withstand the enormous stresses of a midspace filament storm. Despite their strength the hulls are gradually battered and abraded
by storms, and are usually replaced every few years.
The ship carries four high resolution sensor arrays which it uses to chart midspace conditions out to several light years radius. The ships
are unarmed and unshielded. Although not armoured as such, the add on hulls would give considerable protection to weapons fire.
I particularly like the icebreaker inspiration for the design, and its modular construction. If the armour modules are too badly damaged you can pull them off, slap a new set on and you're ready to go. You don't have to send the entire ship off for repairs.
