Cochrane class (science vessel)

The Cochrance-class was a Federation starship class, a long-range science vessel available in tier 4 and tier 6 configurations, in service from the early 25th century. Like the, it was a variant subclass of the. 

History
The Cochrane- and Discovery-classes were inspired by the unscheduled long-endurance journey through the Delta Quadrant undertaken by the USS Voyager in the 2370s, which made the Intrepid-class the gold standard for deep space explorer starships. Utopia Planitia Fleet Yards planned to update the Intrepid-class with the latest in Starfleet design, and in addition to the Discovery-class also produced the Cochrane. 

Technical data
The Cochrane-class science vessel shared its external and internal layout with the Intrepid-class, but appeared more angular. The nacelles were held by the nacelle pylons below the secondary hull.

In 2409, the class was rated tier 4, requiring an officer with the rank of captain to fill the role of commanding officer. The ship's components were interchangeable with its sister classes of the Intrepid line. The available components extended with the launch of the in the same year.

With the launch of the, tier 6 rating became an option, and more components for changing. 

Livery
In the 25th century, the design of the Cochrane-class long-range science vessel allowed its commanding officer to choose from different designs of livery, which could be modified further at starbases. These options were numbered Types, Upgrade and Veteran. 

Furthermore, the installation of deflector shields from specific factions modified the hull appearance, including shields from the Reman Resistance, the Breen Confederacy and the Dominion.