Elsedda-pattern Banshee

''This article is about the space fighter variant. For the ground support variant, see Type-26 Banshee.''

The Type-27 Exoatmospheric Multirole Fighter, informally known as the Space Banshee, the Banshee Fighter, and the Banshee Interceptor, is the Covenant standard space interceptor support craft of the defunct Covenant fleet. It is a vacuum-sealed variant of the Type-26 Banshee ground support aircraft that is designed exclusively for exoatmospheric operations, though it is capable of operating in-atmosphere.

Design details
The Type-27 XMF is similar in appearance and design to the Type-26 Banshee ground support aircraft, although it boasts several unique features. The Type-27 XMF's canards are swept forward, with the impulse engine placement making the craft more maneuverable in zero-G space. The craft sports two heavy plasma cannons, which are elongated in comparison with those of the Type-26's standard model, providing greatly increased range and firepower. A fuel rod cannon is mounted at the front of the fuselage. The craft features an extended tail stabilizer, which helps dampen turbulence during transitions in and out of atmosphere while docking. Unlike the standard Banshee model, the Type-27 XMF sports an enclosed vacuum-sealed cockpit. These craft can be mounted on the hangar bay walls of Covenant warships and on the undersides of vessels' hulls.

The Type-27 XMF is effective against stationary weapon emplacement and EVA-equipped infantry, as well as in reconnaissance pickets. However, the craft is most effective when used in high-volume deployments. Deployment in great numbers can allow the Type-27 XMF to overwhelm heavier fighters such as the GA-TL1 Longsword interceptor, as well as escort ships, such as cruisers and frigates. Though the Seraph is used as the Covenant's primary fighter in single ship combat, the Type-27 Banshee provides invaluable screens and support, tipping many battles in the Covenant's favor.

Operational history
The Type-27 XMF was first observed by United Nations Space Command personnel in 2527. Numerous Type-27 XMFs assisted the Covenant in attacking the UNSC Epsilon Eridani Fleet and orbital stations over Reach during the invasion, particularly during Operation: UPPER CUT. During this engagement, numerous squadrons of Type-27 XMFs were used in conjunction with many of the Covenant's more powerful Type-31 Seraph to attack the UNSC refit station Anchor 9 and later to defend the corvette Ardent Prayer from UNSC boarders.

By 2558 numerous Type-27 Banshees were fielded by Vata 'Gajat's mercenary group during the Battle of Ealen IV.

List of appearances

 * Halo: Reach
 * ''Halo: Fall of Reach
 * Invasion
 * Halo: Escalation