Roberts Space Industries introduced a new Star Citizen spaceship over the weekend. Described as the latest long-range fighter from Aegis, the Aegis Vanguard is a deep space fighter. It is now available in a 'limited concept sale' costing $250 – which will help RSI with the development of the game. However, if you buy one now you won't be able to give it a spin straight away as the game requires a finished model in an update to be applied.
The story of the Aegis Vanguard is as follows; it was initially developed by the United Empire of Earth as a bomber-destroyer, the ship includes impressive front mounted weapons including high-calibre forward laser cannons and a massive central Gatling gun, the Vanguard name comes from its use at the forefront of military expeditions and service against the Vanduul.
An RSI blog post describes the utility of the $250 spaceship, "In combat, the Vanguard’s roles are extensive: long range jump scout, extended duration patrol/reconnaissance ship, fighter-bomber (when equipped with torpedoes), tactical command and control ship, bomber interceptor and, in the proper hands, even a fighter-killer. The Vanguard’s extensive range can allow for missions lasting days or even weeks. Internally, the ship is fitted with sleeping berths and reclamation facilities to support such missions." While the ship might not be as manoeuvrable as some, it benefits from extended range, armour and durability.
As mentioned in the intro, the Aegis Vanguard spaceship is available in a limited sale until 6th April. If bought before that time you will receive lifetime insurance and a pair of decorative items for your hangar. RSI says that an upcoming patch for Star Citizen will first add a Vanguard poster followed by an in-game mini-ship model. In the future it will be available as a conventional ship purchase but will be priced higher and not include the extras such as insurance.
Currently the Star Citizen funding drive has collected more than $77 million from over 850,000 Star Citizens. In the 24 hours following the announcement of the Aegis Vanguard spaceship 'limited concept sale' RSI's coffers swelled by over $657,000.
