The Starsystem was the frigate counterpart of the Pulsar cruiser using many of the same technologies. The first example of the class arrived in 2093 and immediately was put into series production even though the class had some shortcomings especially in terms of protection and over time performance began to lag behind. Thirty were eventually built but regular battle losses meant that no more than around 20 have been in DDS service at any one time. Production continued until 2101 in lieu of anything else available. One battle damaged Starsystem was rebuilt as the Isometric to help develop the next generation of DDS frigate, this prototype remains the only Starsystem left in front-line service.
In 2100 the fleet was upgraded to ILU standard which included a life extension, updated sensors and a new engine boosting performance to 440c. The last couple of new build examples were built to this standard but they were still inadequate for front-line service. Six frigates remain with the training fleet and others have been sold. They are expected to remain in service well into the next decade, perhaps even beyond 2120 if a life-extension can take place.
The Starsystem is the most popular ship in the DDS ship even with it's own society the Starsystem Friendship Circle! This group was successful in lobbying the DDS to not withdraw the Starsystem totally from service as was originally planned. In any event the ship has proven highly useful in training and general duties services allowing more modern ships to be released to front-line work.
