D81-LRT Condor

The D81-LRT Condor, formally designated the D81-Long Range Transport, is a medium-sized, long-range aerospace transport craft manufactured by Misriah Armory.

Development and service history
Formerly a dropship in service with the United Nations Space Command, the Condor was virtually unparalleled in its role of heavy materiel and equipment deployment. However, due to the D96-TCE Albatross and D82-EST Darter's lower development and operational costs along with overlapping functionality the Condor ultimately faded from service in the UNSC. The Condor sees continued use by the Sedran Colonial Guard as it is able to work without the need for a larger vessel to deploy from. It is also ideal for low-volume freighting between the Outer Colonies.

Design details
The Condor is equipped with a slipspace drive, capable of short to mid-range slipstream space travel. The Condor's airframe is remarkably similar to that of Misriah's D79-TC Pelican; indeed, the front half of the craft is almost identical. Apart from being substantially longer the Condor has additional thrust nozzles and what appears to be a second deployment bay on the tail boom; this bay likely houses the slipspace drive.

Trivia

 * A condor is a kind of vulture, in keeping with the UNSC's tradition of naming aerospace craft after birds.
 * The Condor was known as the Super Pelican during the early stages of production on Halo: Nightfall.

List of appearances

 * Halo: Nightfall