The Perseus is a large gunship developed in the late 2520s by Roberts Space Industries (RSI) for the United Planets of Earth Navy (UPEN). It was redesigned as a civilian model in 2950 with modern components and an emphasis on additional utility. Originally intended for blockade duty and engagements against sub-capital ships, the Perseus is outfitted with four massive size 7 cannons, supported by two smaller remote turrets and a launch bay of twenty size 5 torpedoes.[1][2]
The Perseus was first constructed in the late 2520s, a few years before the Xi'an-Human Cold War. These gunships were frequently deployed along the Perry Line, making them a regular fixture after Xi'an-Human first Contact in 2530.[2]
In 2863, RSI retired the Perseus from production due to a lack of interest from the UEEN.[2]
During Operation Mandrake in 2946 in the Vanduul War, the aging Perseus UEES Achilles managed to take down two Vanduul destroyers when the ship was damaged beyond repair. Due to its performance, UEEN Admiral Ernst Bishop personally lobbied RSI to start producing Perseus models again for use against the Vanduul.[2]
Following Perseus success against the Vanduul, RSI expanded development to include a civilian version under the Militia Mobilization Initiative.[3] The new Perseus, equipped with modernized weapons and a redesigned lower deck that could accomodate cargo vehicles[2] was released on day 9 of the Intergalactic Aerospace Expo 2950 [4] event.
| Image | Paint Name | Description | Price (aUEC) | Price ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Thundercloud | A VIP exclusive, the Thundercloud paint scheme is an abstract amalgam of greys, blacks, and whites, inspired by dazzle camouflage. Exclusive to Chairman's Club. | n/a | $19.00 |
Chris Roberts wanted a ship that stood apart from the standard battleship or the destroyers, torpedo boats, carriers, etc already added to the line-up. He chose the ironclad gunboat as the inspiration. In the initial stages, the Perseus' was referred to as "RSI Gunboat", not receiving its final name until very late in the concept development process.[5]
John Crewe put together the design brief. Paul Jones and Gavin Rothery created the concept artwork, with principle work beginning in July 2020.
The Perseus was publicly revealed during IAE 2950.
