franchise-star-trek-tng-technical-manual1

Targeting is directed by the Tactical Officer followingcommand authorization. Target detection and prioritizationare orchestrated by the Tactical Off icer with interactive promptsand responses from the computers. Torpedo sensors andguidance circuits are configured by the tactical situationcontroller to sense specific EM and subspace energies, andwill perform homing maneuvers most suitable to the scenario.While Threat defenses exist against photon torpedoes, includinghigh-energy deflector shields and active torpedocountermeasures, improvements in tactical algorithm creationroutines are constantly being applied. Phaser "dimpling"of a Threat shield can sometimes allow torpedo penetrationfor detonation within the outer shield layers, constraining theexplosion and causing almost total vaporization of the Threatrather than vessel fragmentation.OTHER APPLICATIONSPhoton torpedoes, being general energy release devices,have found their way into many other specializedapplications. Reinforced torpedo casings are able to penetrategeologic formations for deep explosive modifications interraforming and planetary engineering projects. Torpedoesare detonated as long-range sensor calibrators at both warpand sublight speeds. They are often used to divert ordissociate asteroidal materials designated as hazards tospacecraft and planets.11.5 BATTLE BRIDGEDue to the unique nature of vehicle configurations designedinto the USS Enterprise, a separate command andcontrol center is necessary for the Stardrive, or Battle Section,from which operations may be conducted when in SeparatedFlight Mode. The Battle Bridge, while duplicating most of thefunctions of the Main Bridge, concentrates on dedicatedpiloting, support, and defense systems stations. Early longrangestarships lacking separation systems relied upon anauxiliary bridge, usually located deep within the Primary Hullstructure, in the event the Main Bridge was disabled.DESIGN VARIATIONSTwo main variants of the Galaxy class Battle Bridge havebeen installed on the USS Enterprise since the starship wasconstructed. Each has been designed as a replaceablemodule; swapout is accomplished through a series of electrohydraulicjackscrews in the Battle Section head and structurallocking clamps around the base and periphery of themodule. Periodic upgrades will be tested out during the entireoperational cycle in an effort to maintain adequate defensivecapabilities; each Galaxy class starship will always exhibitsome minor differences when compared with its dockmates.Similar design philosophies drove the internal arrangementof the Main Bridge and Battle Bridge. The latter main-isr0J Ln* / •r1. °V00011.5.1 Battle Bridge