CF-117 Rapier flown off the TCS Tiger's Claw, Black Lion Squadron, circa 2654.

The CF-117 Rapier was first developed in 2527; the first order of 700 was delivered in 2536. Over a century later, the Rapier still served as the primary utility fighter of the Terran Confederation Space Force. Rapiers are pure space fighters, incapable of atmospheric combat. They use Tempest targeting and navigational AI systems, alongside Merlin interactive computers. Rapiers carry life support systems for seven hour missions.

Christopher Blair's first combat assignment was with a CF-117 squadron, the Black Lions, aboard the TCS Tiger's Claw. He was soon moved to a Hornet squadron, the Killer Bees.

Origin Aerospace's F-44 Rapier II was named in honor of the CF-117; in an unlikely turn of events it replaced the older fighter in many squadrons only moths after the CF-117 was relegated to reserve status.

Variants:

• CF-117a - Original version, in service until 2645. Lacked the central neutron gun.
• CF-117-F44 - Standard variant as of 2654. Enhances missile capacity, adds the central neutron gun.
• CF-117b - Updates to the second generation of neutron gun.
• CF-117b-L - LARP variant. Trades the central neutron gun for an enhanced sensor package and a 72-hour life support system.