The Destrier was one of the first new WarShips built by the Taurians following the Jihad, preceeded only by the smaller Wagon Wheel frigate. Designed to be a long-range patrol ship instead of a dedicated combat unit though, the Destrier lacks the naval autocannons that its smaller cousin sports. In their place, it sports impressive dedicated fuel bunkerage that allows for seven months of cruise time without refueling, though standard cruise lengths rarely go beyond three months without meeting a tender to maintain enough fuel for pursuit operations. In addition, massive cargo bays give it the ability to carry large amounts of cargo, a capability prized in the colony regions they normally patrol. Capable of taking relief supplies or creature comforts like toys and candy to colonies that have weathered natural disasters, pirate raids, or simply haven't been visited in some time, the arrival of a Destrier is always welcome.
         Designed primarily to combat pirates, the Destrier lacks heavy anti-ship armament, but does sport a pair of naval lasers and a large number of capital missiles for its size that can crack open DropShips, and has a dedicated array of extended-range missiles and light particle cannons dedicated to combating smaller craft. The Destrier also packs on enough armor to survive the assault of any ship it is likely to run into, and the wing of fighters they carry gives them increased surviveability in combat. Normally working with Mustang DropShips, a flotilla centered around a Destrier is escorted by a full air division of fighters and can carry a light battalion of BattleMechs to a destination, more than enough to combat any normal pirate force.
         The Colonial Marshals make heavy use of the Destrier in their patrols and relief convoys, but two-Destrier flotillas are rarely seen in the outer colonies due to their mission and wide-spread nature. Such a concentration of force is an indication that the Marshals have deduced the presence of a major threat in the region. In the Taurian Concordat Navy Destriers operate as long-range scouts for major battlegroups, and as independent patrol ships on the borders. In the navy, it is much more common for them to operate in groups, especially beside the more heavily-armed but shorter-legged Wagon Wheel frigates. The large crew complements, luxurious single-occupancy quarters, short work weeks, and impressive communal recreation areas show a stark contrast to the navies of many other nations, and spacers have begun to use the Taurian navy as a benchmark for crew comforts.