Charon-class light frigate

The Charon-class light frigate was the first standard-type frigate adopted by the UNSC Navy.

Development
As frigates, the Charons were primarily escorts, scouts, and patrol ships, however Charon in particular was designed around ground support and rapid deployment in particular. A newly adopted marine formation, the marine expeditionary company, was to be the troop component of the Charon class. Compared to her cousins, Charon had a significantly larger dorsal cargo hangar capable of accommodating additional vehicles, aerospace craft and other equipment.

The exact size and configuration of the dorsal hangar and sponson superstructure depended on the flight of vessel. Refits to these particular superstructure blocks occurred at the discretion of the commander in charge of the vessel and were often theater dependent.