Tactical

Tactical

The Main Bridge station dedicated to defensive systems control and starship internal security is Tactical. As currently configured on the U.S.S. Victory, Tactical occupies a unique place in the overall command environment, situated directly between the center command area and the aft work stations.

The physical layout of the raised Tactical station console describes a sweeping curve affording an unobstructed view of the main viewer, and an equally clear view of the command stations below. This allows for an uninterrupted exchange between the Security Officer (doubling as senior Tactical Officer) and other bridge officers during critical operations, as well as exchanges with crew members occupying the aft stations. The console lacks a seat and is therefore a standup position, deemed ergonomically necessary for efficient security functions.

While the length of the control/display panel can accommodate two officers, most scenarios will see the Security Officer conducting operations alone. Even during crisis situations, when action levels are highest, a single tactical officer will respond in the least ambiguous manner, with a minimum number of significant order confirmations and command interrogatives.

A second Tactical Officer will be available as necessary, in.the event the senior officer is called to Away Team duty or is otherwise indisposed.

Shipboard Security Functions

Part of the default control layout, presents the Security Officer with information readouts dealing with the internal protection of the Enterprise and its crew.

The first tier of coverage involves a benign, low-level approach, watching over basic crew safety. The second tier activates during diplomatic and cultural missions, providing security for ambassadorial personnel or other important visitors. As an adjunct to these measures, high-level counterintelligence measures may be brought into play to negate possible sabotage or terrorist penetrations on board the Victory.

Security teams can be directed from Tactical via voice command or keyed instructions by the Security Officer or authorized deputy. Armory inventories, Security team personnel assignments, and detailed directives are but a few of the items handled with panel inputs.

Starship Defense Functions

The very survival of the ship will often rest in the hands of Security Officer in the performance of operations in hazardous situations including close-in missions to energetic celestial objects, dealing with dangers posed by certain artificial constructs, and potential hostilities with Threat vessels. A wide variety of systems are available to the Security Officer from the Tactical station, including the ship's defensive shields, phaser banks, and photon torpedoes, all first-line devices.

Tactical coordinates with the Flight Control Officer and Flight Operations positions in all situations involving external hazards. Guidance and navigation information, targeting data, and external communications are networked through all three stations, providing expanded options for dealing with unknowns as they present themselves.

Other systems that may be commanded by Tactical include long- and short-range sensor arrays, sensor probes, message buoys, and tractor beam devices.