Defensive Systems (3200 AD)

Anti-Missile System (AMS)
The anti-missile system (AMS) is a rapid-fire, point-defense machine gun capable of tracking, engaging, and destroying incoming missiles. While effective, the system's primary drawback is its high ammunition consumption. The AMS is composed of two primary components: radar/target acquisition gear and a 50-millimeter machine gun. To save weight and eliminate the need for a fusion reactor, the system uses a standard (nonGauss technology) machine gun. As a result, the AMS has a significantly shorter range and softer punch than most offensive weapons, even those of lower caliber.

Even though the system is capable of firing rates of over 6000 rounds per minute, space and weight limitations means the AMS carries only enough ammunition for a few minutes of sustained fire. And though the AMS is very effective, it is does not guarantee complete protection against missile attacks.

Titanocarbon Armor
A combination of titanium, stainless steel and a carbon-based polymer, Titanocarbon armor is an extremely durable and lightweight alloy that is used as chiefly as defensive plating aboard interstellar warships. Though its defensive abilities are severely compromised against thermonuclear warheads, it nevertheless functions as an adequate countermeasure to rail-cannon weaponry. It also conducts heat very well, meaning that it can protect against the thermal effects of a nearby nuclear detonation, to an extent. The strength of a plate of titanocarbon armor is determined by its thickness. Starfighters typically are plated in 25 millimeter- thick armor, whereas large capital-scale ships can boast a thickness of up to 45 centimeters as a matter of course.