The Defiant class ships are small, nimble, and heavily armed. They were designed for use against the Borg, but played a prominent role in the war against the Dominion. The main weapon of the defiant class is its four pulse phaser cannons which can quickly overwhelm most shields. The Defiant also carries quantum and photon torpedoes.

The prototype Defiant ship was pressed into service early, and prior to the resolution of several major design flaws resulting from the excessive power output contained in it’s small frame. The USS Defiant served as the primary escort, exploration, and combat ship during the DS9 series.