The Tapani Sector version of the Manta-class starfighter is not fitted with a hyperdrive, hence the need for interstellar transport.

It features a magnetic docking clamp instead of a mechanical landing claw, allowing the starfighter to clamp to the hull of a larger ship for transportation. The Manta-class starfighter has a flat, organic design inspired by the creature for which it was named. The design would later be modified by the Cult of Shadow after Shaela Aimreh Dorcha became part of the organization. The starfighter was designed to defend against pirates that preyed on ships traveling the Shapani Bypass, something which it accomplished amply.

The Manta-class Assault Starfighter was first manufactured by the Tapani Starship Cooperative at the Tallaan Shipyards during the height of the Galactic Empire and became the starfighter of choice in the Tapani Sector. ' The Tapani will see their own weapons turned against them, and our Mantas will lead the charge.' - Shaela Aimreh Dorcha