Gal'leath (Explorer)-class Starship

The Gal'leath (Explorer)-class Starship was the scientific breakthrough that got the Tau Empire started. While its Gravitic drive is horrendously slow compared to other races' Warp-Drives, it was adequate in its role of exploring the stars. The galleon of the Tau Empire for many years, its massive cargo holds were large enough to carry everything from modular orbital units to message craft.

The Gal'leath's downfall came at the hands of the Orks. Never meant to be a warship, the Gal'leath simply could not keep Ork Kill Kroozers and Terror Ships at bay. It was ultimately replaced as the Tau's main front-line ship by the Il'fannor (Merchant)-class cruiser, the completion of which led to Gal'leath production being cut by 85%. Those remaining in service are being upgraded to the newest Mk XXIV variant in an effort to get the most use out of them.

All Gal'leaths are equipped with Gravitic hooks for carrying Kass'l Gunships, launch bays for attack craft, and a prow railgun battery. The Mk XXIV configuration sacrifices some of those launch bays in favor of a powerful Gravitic launcher.

Notable Gal'leath-class Starships include:
 * Dal'yth Gal'leath Kessan