Intrepid Tactical Station

The Main Bridge station dedicated to defensive systems control and starship internal security is Tactical. As currently configured on the Intrepid Class starships, Tactical occupies a position on the raised platform behind the command area and to the starboard side, adjacent to the captain's ready room.

The physical layout of the raised Tactical station console permits an unobstructed view of the main viewer, and an equally clear view of the command stations in front of it. This allows for an uninterupted exchange between the Tactical Officer (or Security Officer doubling as senior Tactical Officer) and other bridge officers during critical operations, as well as exchanges with crew members at the Engineering station or aft bridge stations. The console lacks a seat and is therefore a standup position, deemed ergonomically necessary for efficient security functions (though a seat is available for use). While the layout of the consoles and display panels can accomodate two officers, most scenarios will see the Tactical 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 Tactical Officer with information readouts dealing with the internal protection of the vessel 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 ship.

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

All of the consoles and displays dealing with ship security have duplicates located in the Security Offices on Deck 9.

Starship Defense Functions

The very survival of the ship will often rest in the hands of Tactical Officers in the performance of operations in hazardous situations including close-in missions to energetic celestial objects, dealing with dangers posed by certain artificial constructs, adn potential hostilities with Threat vessels. A wide variety of systems are available to the Tactical 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 Operations Management 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.