The Bigeye class is a multirole long range high resolution sensor platform in use by the Coalition. The ship provides active or passive coverage with multiple systems out to ranges far beyond that available from normal shipborne sensors. The performance of the sensors is highly classified, but civilian sources generally put active scanner range at 400 - 500 kLH (45.6 - 57 light years). The Bigeye is capable of "tracking an essentially unlimited number of targets", and can forward that sensor picture to any Coalition warship through secure communications channels in realtime. The Bigeye is fitted with an extensive combat control center, and is capable of directing fleet or fighter actions on a large scale.
The ship can also serve in an active role, serving as a EW platform of prodigious power and ability. It has even been suggested that the active sensors, can focus enough power on one spot to overload and damage enemy sensors.
The layout of the Bigeye is akin to civilian or amphibious ships, with the power systems and midspace drive shunts in the bow to enhance stability, albeit at the cost of agility. The aft section is essentially a large flat hull that serves as a mount for the various sensor systems. At the rear are four sublight propulsors.
Extensive efforts have been made to apply high level stealthing to the engines, officially to reduce their emission signature so as to avoid interfering with the sensors. As a result the Bigeye is one of the "quietest" ships in the fleet, and it is believed that these ships conduct covert ELINT missions, penetrating unfriendly space deeply whilst using passive sensors.
