The T/I is a faster and more heavily-armed version of the basic fighter. This model uses the standard TIE cockpit, drive pod, and wing braces. The solar collector panels have been elongated and bent, providing extra power while not limiting the pilot's field of vision. It uses an advanced type of ion-stream projector that allows pilots to execute tight turns and rolls. With a skilled pilot in control, a T/I can literally fly circles around an X-Wing.

An early prototype of this craft was designed and flown by Lord Darth Vader in the battle of Yavin. The improved handling and structural durability of the interceptor model was demonstrated beyond a doubt by Vader, whose craft survived a collision with one of his wing fighters, after which he was still able to regain control of his ship.

The production model of the interceptor carries laser cannons at the forward tips of its solar arrays, four in all. Its engines are larger than those of the standard TIE, and for a long period of time, this model was believed to be the fastest starfighter in space.

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