Old Soldiers Never Die, They Simply Fade Away image - Ages of the Federation mod for Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion
Ages of the Federation is a new total conversion mod for Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion. This mod takes place in the Enterprise and Original series eras, focusing on the conflict between the early Federation and Klingon Empire. A resurgent Romulan Star Empire, angry and still licking its wounds after their defeat to Earth and her allies waits in the shadows, ready to take advantage of any of misstep by either the warring powers. The Xindi, new to the galactic stage are also eager to forge their own path.
USS Constitution escorts USS Athena on her final cruise.
The Ares-class had proven its mettle as a tactical cruiser time and again throughout the second half of the Four Years War. With the return of peace, however, Starfleet unfortunately struggled to find a role for the Ares. The Ares-class remained so formidable that its use for simple patrol and peacekeeping missions was widely seen as overkill by the admiralty, and when it came to space exploration the larger Constitution-class starships outclassed the Ares in almost every way. Even the option of returning the Ares to its original exploration-focused specifications seemed redundant with newer, more advanced starship classes already in development.
Ultimately, Starfleet decided to quietly retire the Ares-class. Born in a desperate time to battle the advancing forces of tyranny and aggression, it would not be an exaggeration to say that the Ares had, in its short but distinguished service, saved the Federation when it was perched on the brink of defeat.
The Federation, however, was hopeful that the hard-won days of peace would continue for many years to come. Grateful for its service, but regretful of its necessity, Starfleet phased the Ares-class out of service throughout the late 2250s, finally decomissioning the USS Athena in 2263.
"Not gone, merely marching far away."
I'm going to miss that ship.
Since Starfleet put many of it's decommissioned ships in the reserve/mothball fleet, is it possible we might see the Ares in the next iteration of AotF as venerable reinforcements like in Armada 3?
Anything's possible, but we have yet to make any solid plans for AotF2.
Thats a definite maybe! Not gonna say no to that
I like it... The venerable fleet idea, I mean.