An oddity among ships, the Monitor is the result of the line of thought that ・sometimes the best defense is indeed the best defense・. It features turret mounts angled to provide wide interception arcs and a unique ・flux shunt・ modification to its integrated power systems specially constructed to relieve flux generated by shields. Indeed, the Monitor makes up for a lack of maneuverability and concentrated firepower with the ability to withstand prolonged bombardment from enemy ordinance unseen in hulls of similar tonnage.
Though its experimental nature is perhaps a sign of the innovation that eras of turmoil seem to inspire, whether the Monitor・s radical defensive focus is a boon or pitfall remains an issue of some contention. Several dramatic failures in convoy protection patrols were explained by Ko Combine public relations representatives to be the fault of improper tactics employed by convoy commanders. Ko Combine maintains that when positioned correctly in a combat situation and supported by strike-craft - as the anvil and hammer, respectively - simulations demonstrate that the Monitor significantly enhances convoy survivability against the average pirate attack. Prominent critics remain.
The Monitor is a heavy high-survivability frigate. Its unique Flux Shunt hullmod allows it to keep its Fortress Shield ship system up indefinitely, making it virtually invulnerable while doing so (although Combat Readiness degradation will still eventually disable or kill it).
These somewhat rare finds are highly prized as the best defensive, body-blocking escorts available. They can occasionally be found in the Hegemony Military markets.
