A sizable flying-wing bomber, the Valkryie was designed to augment the nimble Shoto starfighters by fielding heavy ordnance to deal with larger targets. The first squadron of Valkryies were produced in 9 BBY. To increase survivability, particularly on approach and egress from target zones, the Valkyrie employed similar technology to the Ataru-class gunship to create a reduced sensor signature and paint scheme that made it considerably more difficult to detect a flight of incoming bombers. To allow Valkyries to make long-range standoff precision strikes on single targets, the bombers were equipped with a revolutionary new miniaturized hyperdrive and were well-shielded to again increase survivability. For such an ungainly craft, the Valkyrie handled well in atmosphere, aided by its aerodynam