STAP

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This article is about Star Wars. For the signal processing technique, see Space-time adaptive processing.

The Single Trooper Aerial Platform is an agile flying machine designed for use by the Trade Federation's battle droids. The STAP is similar in design to personal repulsorlift airhooks use for both civilian and military use in the Star Wars galaxy.

The STAP is designed to travel fast, up to 400 kilometers an hour over open terrain. Its weapons consist of two twin heavy blasters. The STAP is used for scouting and anti-personnel hunting operations. High voltage energy cells power the machine. The STAP is piloted by a single battle droid which stands on a long foot panel while gripping a pair of handles that control its weapons and pilots the craft.

This machine first appeared in the Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace where two of the STAPs were seen pursuing the to be mentor of Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, through the swamps of Naboo. At the Battle of Naboo, STAPs were made short work by Nym and the Jedi.

[edit] Mini-Sub

An aquatic version of the STAP saw action in underwater battles during the Clone Wars, this Mini-Sub was bulkier than its land-version and had armor protection for the droid pilot, as well as a single, big cannon instead of twin-blasters. Many mini-subs were devoured by the riding beasts of the Mon Calamari Knights.

[edit] Heavy STAP

The Heavy STAP was developed by the Trade Federation after the Battle of Naboo. It sports larger laser cannons and a missile launcher. The Heavy STAP was used to scout dangerous enemy territory and to eliminate retreating enemy forces. Its disadvantages are that it is less agile than the standard STAP and has difficulty crossing certain types of terrain including rivers.