TCCOM:TIE Corps Pilot Manual

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TIE Corps Pilot Manual

Introduction

Welcome, pilot. Whether you are a trainee or a seasoned veteran, you’ll find everything that you need to know about the TIE Corps in this manual. Designed by pilots, for pilots, it is supposed to be the primary source of information for any TIE Corps member.

I hope that all of you will find this manual a useful source of information while also keeping in mind the only constant in life is change. Future decisions made by the Command Staff might lead to this document becoming outdated. When in doubt, communicate with the officers you report to via the chain of command.

New members, please note that you are required to be acquainted with this document and the supplementary documents referred to within it in order to be accepted in the fleet as an active member. If you have any questions, reach out to your immediate superior.

The most important thing to emphasize here is that the Emperor’s Hammer TIE Corps is a Star Wars gaming club. As such, one of its greatest aspects is the potential to meet and interact with fellow pilots who share a common interest while having fun with our favorite games.

The Command Staff and I wish you all a fun time with us here in the TIE Corps.

Regards,

High Admiral Plif, TIE Corps Commander

Chain of Command

The TIE Corps is a military dictatorship and, as such, it possesses a chain of command – a line of authority and responsibility along which orders are passed. A Flight Member is under a Flight Leader's authority, a Flight Leader is under a Squadron Commander's authority, and so on. It is also worth noting that a higher position's orders always override ones from a lower position – for example, a Commodore’s orders would supersede those of a Squadron Commander.

Ideally, questions should be resolved at the lowest level possible. As a FM, ask your FL or CMDR first. If they don’t have the answer, they’ll refer the question to their superior and so on up the chain until an answer is given or a decision is reached by the TCCOM.

Structure

The smallest unit in the TIE Corps is a flight, which consists of up to four pilots: a Flight Leader and up to three Flight Members. It is the smallest unit usually sent into battle, but it is not considered independent. Each flight has its own nickname and motto and all of its members are assigned the same type of starfighters.

A group of three flights makes a squadron. The leader of Flight I is in command of the squadron and is called the Squadron Commander (CMDR). The leader of Flight II is the second-in-command of the squadron and is called the Squadron Executive Officer (SQXO). A squadron may consist of up to twelve pilots and is the smallest unit considered independent.

A grouping of two to six squadrons is called a wing and is led by a Wing Commander. Currently, the Wing Commander positions are occupied exclusively by non-player characters, but they could be staffed by live members again should the need arise.

A wing is usually stationed aboard an Imperial II-class Star Destroyer of the Emperor's Hammer Strike Fleet. An ISDII and her escorts are collective known as a battlegroup (BG), and each battlegroup is commanded by a Battlegroup Commander who holds a flag rank.

Leading the TIE Corps is the TIE Corps Command Staff (TCCS), a group of three admirals that are in direct command of the entire TIE Corps. The TCCS consists of the TIE Corps Commander, the Strategic Operations Officer, and the Combat Operations Officer. The TIE Corps Commander is the highest authority in the entire TIE Corps and may be overruled only by the Fleet Commander of the Emperor's Hammer.

The TCCS plus the Battlegroup Commanders may be referred to as the TIE Corps Admiralty Board (TCAB) as a group of all of the admirals in the Corps.

The entire Emperor's Hammer Strike Fleet is under the authority of the Emperor's Hammer Command Staff, a group of admirals that are in direct control of various aspects of the entire organization.

Positions

This section describes the various positions available in the TIE Corps.

Line Positions

Trainee (TRN)

Position Description: Aspiring pilots who join the TIE Corps are initially given the rank of Cadet and the position of Trainee upon arrival on the Super Star Destroyer Avenger until they complete their training, during which they will learn the basic knowledge and skills necessary for service in the TIE Corps. Trainees are included in the roster count but cannot be awarded medals or promotions until they complete their training and are assigned to a squadron. Upon completing their training, a Trainee is promoted to Sub-Lieutenant and assigned to a squadron in a Flight Member position.

Rank: Cadet

Duties: Completing training

Contact Requirements: Low. At least once per month contact via email the TIE Corps Commander. However, they are encouraged to complete their training requirements as soon as possible so that they may be assigned to an active squadron.

Flight Member (FM)

Position Description: Flight Member is the most common role in the TIE Corps. Flight Members participate in competitions, post on message boards, talk with fellow members, play custom missions and multiplayer matches, and undertake other activities. In addition, Flight Members are encouraged to interact with their immediate superiors (Flight Leaders and/or Squadron Commanders) in regards to any questions or suggestions they may have.

Rank: Sub-Lieutenant on appointment, may be promoted up to Major

Duties: Being active, participating in TIE Corps activities

Contact Requirements: Low. At least once per month contact via email or other form of communication with immediate superior.

Flight Leader (FL)

Position Description: The Flight Leader serves as a team leader for the three Flight Members within the flight to which they're assigned.

Rank: Lieutenant on appointment, may be promoted up to Colonel

Duties: A Flight Leader should lead by example and be active

Contact Requirements: Low to moderate. A Flight Leader should stay in contact with their Squadron Commander and their flight. Response time should not exceed 72 hours.

Squadron Executive Officer (SQXO)

Position Description: The SQXO serves as the designated second-in-command of a squadron and performs any additional duties assigned by the CMDR.

Rank: No new rank upon appointment, may be promoted in line with primary position

Duties: Each CMDR may choose which duties, if any, to assign to their unit’s SQXO. Examples are listed below.

• Serving as the Acting CMDR while the CMDR is on leave
• Submitting squadron reports (preferably only occasionally)
• Contacting other FLs and FMs
• Running competitions
• Tracking squadron citation progress

Contact Requirements: Generally low, but might be needed more often depending on assigned duties

Squadron Commander (CMDR)

Position Description: A key position in the TIE Corps, the CMDR manages the day-to-day operations of the squadron. Because nearly all the members of the TIE Corps are assigned to a squadron, the CMDRs are critical to maintaining the line of communication across the chain of command.

Rank: Commander on appointment, may be promoted up to General.

Duties:

• Keeping in contact with the FLs and FMs under their command and answering any questions that arise
• Informing the squadron of news and important events
• Writing squadron reports
• Submitting Monthly Squadron Evaluations (MSE), which includes making medal and rank promotion recommendations
• Creating competitions for the squadron
• Being familiar with primary reference materials (TIE Corps Pilot Manual, Emperor's Hammer Training Manual, etc.)

Contact Requirements: Moderate. Answering emails, writing reports, and writing evaluations will take most of the CMDR’s time. A CMDR is also expected to maintain regular contact with their squadron and Commodore via email. Response time should not exceed 2 days.

Wing Commander (WC)

Position Description: The Wing Commander is in charge a wing of two to six squadrons. The WC positions are currently unstaffed and the duties below are fulfilled by the BGCOMs.

Rank: Major on appointment, may be promoted up to General

Duties:

• Overseeing daily operations of the wing
• Writing wing reports
• Reviewing monthly evaluations submitted by the CMDRs
• Staying in contact with the pilots in their wing, particularly the CMDRs
• Appointing CMDRs (usually with approval from the Commodore)
• Creating competitions for the wing
• Informing the wing of news and important events
• Being very familiar with primary reference materials (TIE Corps Pilot Manual, Emperor's Hammer Training Manual, etc.)

Contact Requirements: Moderate to high. The WC must keep in contact with the CMDRs in their wing and make sure the squadrons are active. In addition, the email load of a WC is rather heavy, with response times expected to be 24-48 hours.

Flag Positions

Commodore (COM)

Position Description: A Commodore commands a battlegroup’s flagship, usually an Imperial-class Star Destroyer, and all fighter squadrons assigned to that ship. The COM positions are currently unstaffed and the duties below are fulfilled by the BGCOMs.

Rank: Commodores must hold the rank of Rear Admiral or higher and may be promoted up to Admiral

Duties:

• Overseeing daily operations of the ship
• Reviewing monthly evaluations submitted by the WC and CMDRs
• Writing ship reports
• Staying in contact with the pilots assigned to their ship, particularly the WC and the CMDRs
• Creating competitions for the ship
• Informing the ship of news and important events
• Being completely familiar with primary reference materials (TIE Corps Pilot Manual, Emperor's Hammer Training Manual, etc.)

Contact Requirements: Heavy. The Commodore is expected to attend official meetings, communicate on Discord, etc. as often as possible. Response time should not exceed 24 hours.

Battlegroup Commander (BGCOM)

Position Description: A Battlegroup Commander commands a battlegroup of ships including at least one wing of active duty squadrons. They direct their battlegroup’s operations, both day-to-day and in battle.

Rank: Battlegroup Commanders must hold the rank of Rear Admiral or higher and may be promoted up to Fleet Admiral

Duties:

• Overseeing daily operations of the battlegroup
• Reviewing monthly evaluations submitted by the COMs, WCs, and CMDRs
• Writing battlegroup reports
• Staying in contact with the pilots assigned to their battlegroup, particularly the CMDRs
• Creating competitions for the battlegroup
• Informing the battlegroup of news and important events
• Being completely familiar with primary reference materials (TIE Corps Pilot Manual, Emperor's Hammer Training Manual, etc.)

Contact Requirements: Heavy. A BGCOM is expected to attend official meetings, communicate on Discord, etc. as often as possible. Response time should not exceed 24 hours.

TIE Corps Command Staff

Combat Operations Officer (COO/TC-3)

Position Description: The Combat Operations Officer oversees all multiplayer activities in the TIE Corps. The Combat Operations Officer's primary duties are coordination of multiplayer pilots, expanding multiplayer activities, and approving multiplayer-oriented awards.

Rank: Rear Admiral upon appointment, may be promoted up to Fleet Admiral

Duties:

• Writing reports
• Reviewing and approving multiplayer matches for all platforms
• Creating and coordinating multiplayer competitions and events
• Reviewing and approving competitions

Contact Requirements: Moderate to high. The COO will constantly receive message from pilots with match results for their events and other multiplayer-related inquiries.

Strategic Operations Officer (SOO/TC-2)

Position Description: The Strategic Operations Officer is primarily responsible for awarding medals and reviewing evaluations. The Strategic Operations Officer is also considered the second-in-command of the TIE Corps.

Rank: Rear Admiral upon appointment, may be promoted up to Fleet Admiral

Duties:

• Writing reports
• Reviewing the evaluations submitted by the CMDRs, WCs, and COMs
• Reviewing and approving medal recommendations
• Staying in contact with the pilots in the TIE Corps, particularly the COMs

Contact Requirements: High. The Strategic Operations Officer needs to maintain contact with the COMs and be ready to answer any question regarding the TIE Corps asked by members.

TIE Corps Commander (TCCOM/TC-1)

Position Description: The TIE Corps Commander is in overall command of the TIE Corps and reports directly to the Fleet Commander of the Emperor's Hammer Strike Fleet. He bears the ultimate responsibility for the TIE Corps. Aside from keeping a close eye on the general state of the TIE Corps, the TIE Corps Commander is responsible for roster updates and promotion requests. The TIE Corps Commander is also considered part of the Emperor's Hammer Command Staff as a Group Commanding Officer.

Rank: Admiral upon appointment, may be promoted up to High Admiral

Duties:

• Writing reports
• Overseeing the general state of TIE Corps
• Maintaining the online roster
• Maintaining the TIE Corps Pilot Manual
• Reviewing and approving promotion requests
• Reviewing and approving uniform submissions
• Coordinating and managing the SOO and COO

Contact Requirements: High. The TIE Corps Commander must be always aware about the state of the TIE Corps and be ready to support the SOO and COO when needed.

Assistants and Other Secondary Positions

Because the positions of the TIE Corps Command Staff and Emperor's Hammer Command Staff involve highly sensitive and extensive duties, each member of the TCCS and EHCS may appoint Assistants. An Assistant shall remain in their previous position on the roster and perform their usual role, however he will be expected to support the TCCS member in fulfilling some of their duties. Although this shall require more effort from the Assistant than if he would be a typical member, Assistants have more activity to note in evaluations and often receive additional or higher merit medals than they would have received otherwise.

The position of Assistant is signified by an appropriate addition in the ID line, in the position's section. The addition takes the form of 'XXA', where XX is the abbreviation for the officer you are assisting. For example a Squadron Commander who is also a COO Assistant would start their ID line with 'CMDR-COOA', where COOA indicates the Assistant position.

There are also several other secondary positions like the Tactician (TCT) and Tactical Surveyors (TCS). The only difference that separates those positions from that of the Assistant is that their duties are more specific than those of the Assistant.

Warden of the Imperial Archives (WARD)

Position Description: The Warden is responsible for championing fiction, writing and related non-flight activity within the TC Rank: No new rank upon appointment, may be promoted in line with primary position.

Duties:

• Supports and encourages fiction and related non-flight activity with the creation of competitions and other activities
• Uploads submitted fiction and graphics to their creator's profile
• Other duties assigned by the TCCS as needed

Contact Requirements: Moderate to High. A Warden will be expected to lead by example and provide a useful source of guidance or information to any pilot.

Editor of the TC Newsletter (EDR)

Position Description: The Editor of the TC Newsletter compiles submissions and publishes the TIE Corps newsletter, currently called The Commodore

Rank: No new rank upon appointment, may be promoted in line with primary position

Duties:

• Accepts submissions for the newsletter
• Actively looks for works that have been created but not specifically submitted for the newsletter, communicates with those creators about their works as needed
• Uploads any needed materials to tc.emperorshammer.org/commodore/
• Creates the newsletter through HTML coding, word processing, etc.
• Sets a schedule for the publication of newsletters
• Submits a list of needed Letter of Achievement awards to the TCCS after the publication of a newsletter

Contact Requirements: Low, mostly coordinating submissions for the newsletter.

Simulations Officer (SIMS)

Position Description: The Simulations Officer runs Imperial Storm events and performs related duties

Rank: No new rank upon appointment, may be promoted in line with primary position

Duties:

• Maintains and publishes the rules for Imperial Storm
• Works with the TCCS on scheduling Imperial Storm events
• Acts as the primary contact for inquiries related to Imperial Storm
• Provides the coordination needed to run an Imperial Storm event
• Creates and maintains the Imperial Storm website (currently imperialstorm.emperorshammer.org)

Contact Requirements: Low most of the time, High when actively running an Imperial Storm event.

Captain of the M/FRG Phoenix (CAPT)

Position Description: The CAPT reaches out to the members of the Reserves regularly and coordinates with the TCCOM concerning assignments

Rank: No new rank upon appointment, may be promoted in line with primary position

Duties:

• Emails the Reserves on a regular basis, normally quarterly
• Handles any questions from the Reservists about the Corps’ current operations
• Refers Reservists to the TCCOM if they’d like to return to active duty
• Relays any bouncing email addresses to the TCCOM, not having a valid email address on file would lead to an AWOL declaration

Contact Requirements: Low, mostly confined to an active round of emailing the Reservists

Tour of Duty

A Tour of Duty is currently defined as four months of continuous, active service. When needed, a Tour of Duty will be reviewed and considered completed if an officer fulfilled their duties during that time frame. A Tour of Duty will be considered incomplete if an officer was absent for some of that time or did not fulfill the duties of their position.

Reserves

The TIE Corps Reserves, based on the Modified Frigate Phoenix, is where retired officers are assigned. Reserve officers have no duties besides maintaining an active email address for future contact.

A Reservist will hold the last rank they have had before transferring and all of their data will remain stored in the TIE Corps database. Former admirals that retire in a line position may reclaim their flag rank as long as they completed a full Tour of Duty as an admiral.

Trainees may not join the Reserves. A pilot must have completed their training first and hold the rank of at least Sub-Lieutenant to be eligible for transfer to the Reserves.

Ranks

Although a member’s overall status within the Fleet will be entirely determined by their position, the military ranks presented below further stratify the TIE Corps and give something for members to strive for. The position of a member will always take precedence over conflicting ranks (e.g., a Flight Leader who is a Lieutenant Colonel does not outrank a Squadron Commander who is a Captain). A member may retain a rank achieved in a previous assignment to a higher command position even if their current position does not warrant a promotion to that rank.

Flag ranks may not be held in line positions (i.e., FM, FL, SQXO, CMDR, and WC). Former admirals that are assigned to line positions will be granted the rank of Colonel regardless of their line rank before assignment to an admiral position as long as they completed a full Tour of Duty in their admiralty role. The exception for this rule is applied to members that achieved the rank of General before the admiralty appointment, in which case they will be returned to the rank of General.

Line Ranks

Cadet (CT)	Rank assigned to the Trainees assigned to the Imperial Weapons and Tactics School (IWATS) aboard the Super Star Destroyer Avenger
Sub-Lieutenant (SL)	Cadets that complete their training and are assigned as Flight Members are promoted to Sub-Lieutenant
Lieutenant (LT)	SLs that complete one of the requirements listed in Promotion to LT are promoted to LT
Lieutenant Commander (LCM)	Active LTs that have completed the TIE Corps Core course (TCCORE) from the Imperial University (IU) may be promoted to LCM
Commander (CM)	Active LCMs may be promoted to CM. SLs, LTs, and LCMs that are promoted to CMDR roles are also promoted to CM and will retain that rank as long as they complete at least one Tour of Duty as a CMDR.
Captain (CPT)	Active CMs may be promoted to CPT
Major (MAJ)	Active CPTs are promoted to MAJ. MAJ is the highest rank that a FM may be promoted to.
Lieutenant Colonel (LC)	Active MAJs in a FL role or higher may be promoted to LC
Colonel (COL)	Active LCs in a SQXO or FL role or higher may be promoted to COL. As noted above, admirals that have completed a Tour of Duty in their admiralty role will receive the rank of COL when transferred to an FM, FL, CMDR, or WC assignment. COL is the highest rank that a SQXO or FL may be promoted to.
General (GN)	Exceptional CMDR/COLs and CMDR/WCs may be promoted to the rank of GN, the highest line rank and prestigious honor to receive

Flag Ranks

Rear Admiral (RA)	First-time admirals being assigned to a COM, SOO, or COO role will receive the rank of RA and will retain that rank as long as they complete at least one Tour of Duty as an admiral
Vice Admiral (VA)	Active RAs may be promoted to the rank of VA
Admiral (AD)	Active VAs may be promoted to the rank of AD. If someone is promoted to TCCOM that doesn’t already hold this rank or higher, they will be promoted to AD and will retain that rank as long as they complete at least one Tour of Duty as the TCCOM. AD is the highest rank that a COM may be promoted to.
Fleet Admiral (FA)	Active ADs in a SOO, COO, or TCCOM role may be promoted to FA. FA is the highest rank that the SOO and COO may be promoted to.
High Admiral (HA)	This is the highest rank achievable within the TIE Corps. Only a TCCOM holding the rank of FA may be promoted to HA, and this often requires outstanding service in that capacity in order to receive this promotion from the Fleet Commander.
Sector Admiral (SA)	The Executive Officer (XO) of the Emperor’s Hammer is granted this exclusive rank. Former XOs are allowed to retain this rank after leaving the XO position.
Grand Admiral (GA)	The Fleet Commander (FC) of the Emperor’s Hammer is granted this exclusive rank. Former FCs are allowed to retain this rank after leaving the FC position.

Promotions

Although the entire Chain of Command in the TIE Corps is based on positions and not ranks, the possibility of attaining new 'bars' has been a motivation for many generations of TIE Corps pilots to go above and beyond the minimum requirements of a pilot. The following section deals with various issues regarding the promotions – the procedure itself is discussed in section VIII. Procedures.

Promotional Authority

Promotion recommendations usually come from the officer immediately above the recommended member in the Chain of Command. For example, promotion requests for FMs, FLs, and SQXOs will normally be made by their CMDR. All promotion requests must receive the approval of the TCCOM or the SOO. Promotion requests for the TCCOM must be approved by the FC.

Position Requirements

Position	Minimum rank	Maximum rank
TIE Corps Commander (TCCOM)	Admiral (AD)	High Admiral (HA)
Strategic Operations Officer (SOO)	Rear Admiral (RA)	Fleet Admiral (FA)
Combat Operations Officer (COO)	Rear Admiral (RA)	Fleet Admiral (FA)
Commodore (COM)	Rear Admiral (RA)	Admiral (AD)
Wing Commander (WC)	Major (MAJ)	General (GN)
Squadron Commander (CMDR)	Commander (CM)	General (GN)
Squadron Executive Officer (SQXO)	Lieutenant (LT)	Colonel (COL)
Flight Leader (FL)	Lieutenant (LT)	Colonel (COL)
Flight Member (FM)	Sub-Lieutenant (SL)	Major (MAJ)

While an officer may be promoted by several ranks in the case of an appointment to a position (for example a Lieutenant getting appointed as a Squadron Commander and thus elevated to the rank of Commander, omitting the rank of Lieutenant Commander), it will not be a permanent promotion until the officer finishes at least one Tour of Duty in their new position or they receive another promotion. If a Tour of Duty is not completed, their rank will revert to the one they held prior to their promotion.

This obviously does not affect officers that did not have to be promoted for the position appointment as well as officers that were promoted during the first four months of their command in a new position.

As previously mentioned, a member may retain a rank achieved in a previous assignment to a higher command position, even if their current position does not warrant a promotion to that rank. For example, if a Wing Commander that has attained the rank of General wishes to retire and instead become a Flight Member in a squadron, he would not be demoted to Major.

All Admirals that are retiring to a line position in the TIE Corps from an admiralty position will be appointed the rank of Colonel, without regard for their ranks before their ascendancy to the admiralty, as long as they have completed a Tour of Duty. The only exception is a situation when an admiralty member held the rank of General before being appointed as an Admiral. In such a case, the member in question would be given back his General rank after retiring from the admiralty position.

Rank Requirements

All promotions will be reviewed on a case-to-case basis. The following presents a listing of the ranks, minimum time served in previous rank and current position (if applicable) and services typically required prior to promotions in the TIE Corps.

Note: Just serving the minimum time-in-rank doesn’t automatically entitle a pilot to a rank promotion. Promotions are subject to approval by the pilot’s chain of command, and meeting minimum standards for one’s position is normally required for a promotion to be approved. Questions about promotions should be raised with the pilot’s immediate superior, who can escalate through the chain of command as needed.

Rank	Time in previous rank	Typical position(s)
High Admiral (HA)	Fleet Commander’s Discretion	TIE Corps Commander (TCCOM)
Fleet Admiral (FA)	Fleet Commander’s Discretion (TCCOM) 7 months (SOO, COO) 12 months (BGCOM)	TIE Corps Commander (TCCOM) Strategic Operations Officer (SOO) Combat Operations Officer (COO) Battlegroup Commander (BGCOM)
Admiral (AD)	6 months (SOO, COO) 9 months (BGCOM, COM)	TIE Corps Commander (TCCOM) Strategic Operations Officer (SOO) Combat Operations Officer (COO) Battlegroup Commander (BGCOM) Commodore (COM)
Vice Admiral (VA)	5 months (SOO, COO) 7 months (BGCOM, COM)	Strategic Operations Officer (SOO) Combat Operations Officer (COO) Battlegroup Commander (BGCOM) Commodore (COM)
Rear Admiral (RA)	Appointment	Strategic Operations Officer (SOO) Combat Operations Officer (COO) Battlegroup Commander (BGCOM) Commodore (COM)
General (GN)	4 months (WC) 8 months (CMDR)	Wing Commander (WC) Squadron Commander (CMDR)
Colonel (COL)	3 months (WC) 6 months (CMDR) 12 months (SQXO, FL)	Wing Commander (WC) Squadron Commander (CMDR) Squadron Executive Officer(SQXO) Flight Leader (FL)
Lieutenant Colonel (LC)	2 months (WC) 4 months (CMDR) 10 months (SQXO, FL)	Wing Commander (WC) Squadron Commander (CMDR) Squadron Executive Officer(SQXO) Flight Leader (FL)
Major (MAJ)	Appointment (WC) 2 months (CMDR) 8 months (SQXO, FL) 10 months (FM)	Wing Commander (WC) Squadron Commander (CMDR) Squadron Executive Officer(SQXO) Flight Leader (FL) Flight Member (FM)
Captain (CPT)	2 months (CMDR) 4 months (SQXO, FL) 6 months (FM)	Squadron Commander (CMDR) Squadron Executive Officer(SQXO) Flight Leader (FL) Flight Member (FM)
Commander (CM)	Appointment (CMDR) 3 months (SQXO, FL) 4 months (FM)	Squadron Commander (CMDR) Squadron Executive Officer(SQXO) Flight Leader (FL) Flight Member (FM)
Lieutenant Commander (LCM)	1 month (SQXO, FL) 2 months (FM) Completion of TCCORE	Squadron Executive Officer(SQXO) Flight Leader (FL) Flight Member (FM)
Lieutenant (LT)	Completing one approved activity (FM)	Flight Member (FM)
Cadet (CT)	Enlistment	Trainee (TRN)

Promotion to LT

A Sub-Lieutenant earns their promotion to full Lieutenant by completing any of the following tasks:

• Completing an Emperor’s Hammer battle or free mission for X-Wing, TIE Fighter, X-Wing versus TIE Fighter, or X-Wing Alliance
• Earning an Iron Star, Operational Readiness Award, Legion of Combat, Legion of Skirmish, Medal of Tactics, or Commendation of Service
• Submitting a piece of fiction or a graphic to the Warden of the Imperial Archives (WARD)
• Submitting a complete Imperial Navy Pilot Record (INPR)
• Completing any Imperial University (IU) course

TIE Corps Core

The completion of TIE Corps Core (TCCORE) is required for promotion to LCM. TCCORE introduces pilots to our structure, ranks, positions, and other basic knowledge. Most of that information is also here in the Pilot Manual, but the course features a test that confirms the pilot’s understanding.

Awards

Members of the TIE Corps may be recognized with the following awards depending on the level and significance of their work. All award recommendations are reviewed and approved by the Strategic Operations Officer unless the recommendation comes from the TIE Corps Commander, Executive Officer, or Fleet Commander, in which case those officers may approve the award themselves.

There are three types of medals that a member can earn while in the service of the Emperor’s Hammer: Merit Awards, Service Awards, and Commendations.

Merit Awards

	Medal of Honor (MoH) The Medal of Honor is the highest medal a member of the Emperor’s Hammer may be awarded. The recipients of the Medal of Honor have performed consistent service above and beyond the call of duty and have personally and significantly improved the entire Fleet through their direct actions. A fictional example of such service would include the sacrifice of a pilot in the line of duty while saving others. A more practical example for the award would be for a member who personally introduced an aspect to the Fleet that proves to be instrumental in its growth. This medal may only be awarded by the Fleet Commander.
Imperial Cross	Imperial Cross (IC) The Imperial Cross is awarded to members who have shown exceptional loyalty and dedication to the Fleet. These officers will have shown consistent, exceptional and innovative service in their assigned function. This medal may be awarded by Group Commanders, the Executive Officer, and the Fleet Commander.
Order of the Renegade	Order of the Renegade (OoR) The Order of the Renegade is given for exceptional dedication, service and loyalty to the fleet far surpassing all other members and is regarded to be an independent recognition of a member’s actions. This is awarded in memory of Sector Admiral Renegade for his incredible work in the service to the Emperor’s Hammer. Members who are already Fleet Admirals (or of equivalent rank) and who have achieved almost all merit awards are awarded the coveted Order of the Renegade, which may only be bestowed by the Executive Officer or the Fleet Commander.
Grand Order of the Emperor	Grand Order of the Emperor (GOE) Any member of the Emperor’s Hammer may be awarded this medal for service above and beyond the call of duty. The awarding of this medal constitutes entrance into a fraternal order, with recipients being highly respected in all manners of Imperial functions. This medal may only be awarded by Group Commanders, the Executive Officer, and the Fleet Commander.
	Gold Star of the Empire (GS) The Gold Star of the Empire is awarded for extraordinary service to the TIE Corps exceeding contributions that would be recognized with the SS.
	Silver Star of the Empire (SS) The Silver Star of the Empire is awarded for exceptional service to the TIE Corps exceeding contributions that would be recognized with the BS.
	Bronze Star of the Empire (BS) The Bronze Star of the Empire is awarded for excellent service to the TIE Corps exceeding contributions that would be recognized with the PC.
	Palpatine Crescent (PC) The Palpatine Crescent is awarded for outstanding service to the TIE Corps exceeding contributions that would be recognized with the ISM.
	Imperial Security Medal (ISM) The Imperial Security Medal is awarded for notable achievements made on behalf of the TIE Corps.
	Imperial Achievement Ribbon (IAR) Used to recognize short-term bursts of activity, the Imperial Achievement Ribbon is awarded to pilots that exert effort beyond the normal scope of their duties worthy of being mentioned in a dispatch. The IAR may be upgraded as follows: Bronze Leaf (-BL) - Awarded for receiving the IAR twenty-five times Silver Leaf (-SL) - Awarded for receiving the IAR fifty times Gold Leaf (-GL) - Awarded for receiving the IAR one hundred times

Service Awards

	Medal of Instruction (MoI) The Medal of Instruction is awarded to any officer who personally recruits a new member to the TIE Corps who then completes the requirements to be assigned to a squadron. The MoI may be upgraded as follows: Medal of Instruction - For recruitment of a new member Blue Cross (-bc) - For recruitment of 5 new members Gold Cross (-gc) - For recruitment of 10 new members Platinum Cross (-pc) - For recruitment of 25 new members Emerald Cross (-ec) - For recruitment of 50 new members Diamond cross (-dc) - For recruitment of 100+ new members
	Medal of Tactics (MoT) The Medal of Tactics is awarded by the TAC to members who create a battle or free mission that is added to the EH Battle Center. Creation of a battle is rewarded with a Red Hammer (-rh), and a free mission is rewarded with a Green Hammer (-gh). Longer battles can qualify for multiple Red Hammers: a 4-8 mission battle receives 1 Red Hammer, a 9-13 mission battle receives 2 Red Hammers, and so on. Members who provide corrections to battles and missions under the supervision of and with prior approval of the Tactical Officer are eligible to receive a Medal of Tactics with a Blue Hammer (-bh), up to the Tactical Officer’s discretion. Red Hammer (-rh) – Creation of a battle Green Hammer (-gh) – Creation of a free mission Blue Hammer (-bh) – Correction of a battle or free mission
	Medal of Communication (MoC) The Medal of Communication is awarded by the SOO to members who display constant communication efforts like posting on mailing lists and participating on Discord and/or our other communications platforms. The MoC is awarded with the following devices: Bronze Oak Cluster (-boc) – Standard, all months other than the third, six, ninth, and twelfth Silver Oak Cluster (-soc) – In third month of activity Gold Oak Cluster (-goc) – In sixth month of activity Platinum Oak Cluster (-poc) – In ninth month of activity Diamond Oak Cluster (-doc) – In twelfth month of activity If a member is somehow not active for a few months they’ll pick up where they left off in the award cycle.
	TIE Corps Commander’s Unit Award (TUA) The TIE Corps Commander’s Unit Award is presented to the members of the first place squadron in a fleet-wide competition. For a pilot to receive the award, they must have contributed to the squadron's victory through activities such as flying missions, submitting fiction, etc. Upgrades to the TUA are as follows: Bronze Wings - Awarded for receiving the TUA five times Silver Wings - Awarded for receiving the TUA ten times Gold Wings - Awarded for receiving the TUA twenty times
	TIE Corps Meritorious Unit Award (MUA) The TIE Corps Meritorious Unit Award is presented to the members of runners-up squadrons in a fleet-wide competition, both second and third places. The MUA is also awarded to the members of the first place wing/ship in a fleet-wide competition and the members of the first place squadron in a wing or ship competition. For a pilot to receive the award, they must have contributed to the wing’s or ship’s victory through activities such as flying missions, submitting fiction, etc. Upgrades to the MUA are as follows: Bronze Wings - Awarded for receiving the MUA five times Silver Wings - Awarded for receiving the MUA ten times Gold Wings - Awarded for receiving the MUA twenty times
	Iron Star with Wings The Iron Star with Wings is awarded for placement in a competition. The level awarded depends on the scale and scope of the competition and will ultimately be approved or denied by the TCCOM when the competition is submitted in the database. The Iron Star is always presented with a device, either Wings or a Ribbon. Iron Stars with Wings are awarded for competitions that involve gaming in one of our main games. The Iron Star with Platinum Wings (IS-PW) may only be awarded for first place in Corps-wide competitions that either last several months or for more complex events like Raise the Flag. The Iron Star with Gold Wings (IS-GW) is awarded for first place in battlegroup, ship, and wing competitions. They’re also awarded for Corps-level competitions that last less than a few months and to the runner-up for an IS-PW. Competitions at the Corps, battlegroup, ship, and wing levels that run for less than a month or have rounds that last less than a month should not award IS-GWs to keep them from becoming too common. The Iron Star with Silver Wings (IS-SW) is awarded for first place in squadron-level competitions that last at least one month. They’re also awarded to the runner-up for an IS-GW. The Iron Star with Bronze Wings (IS-BW) is awarded for first place in squadron-level competitions lasting less than one month or to the runner-up for an IS-SW. The Iron Star with Copper Wings (IS-CW) would never need to be a first place award, with other Iron Stars fulfilling that purpose. Any competition awarding the IS-BW may award an IS-CW to the runner-up for an IS-BW.
	Iron Star with Ribbon The Iron Star with Ribbon is awarded for placement in a competition. The level awarded depends on the scale and scope of the competition and will ultimately be approved or denied by the TCCOM when the competition is submitted in the database. The Iron Star is always presented with a device, either Wings or a Ribbon. Iron Stars with Ribbons are awarded for competitions that involve non-gaming activity or secondary games. The Iron Star with Platinum Ribbon (IS-PR) may only be awarded for first place in Corps-wide competitions that either last several months or for more complex events like Raise the Flag. The Iron Star with Gold Ribbon (IS-GR) is awarded for first place in battlegroup, ship, and wing competitions. They’re also awarded for Corps-level competitions that last less than a few months and to the runner-up for an IS-PR. Competitions at the Corps, battlegroup, ship, and wing levels that run for less than a month or have rounds that last less than a month should not award IS-GRs to keep them from becoming too common. The Iron Star with Silver Ribbon (IS-SR) is awarded for first place in squadron-level competitions that last at least one month. They’re also awarded to the runner-up for an IS-GR. The Iron Star with Bronze Ribbon (IS-BR) is awarded for first place in squadron-level competitions lasting less than one month or to the runner-up for an IS-SR. The Iron Star with Copper Ribbon (IS-CR) would never need to be a first place award, with other Iron Stars fulfilling that purpose. Any competition awarding the IS-BR may award an IS-CR to the runner-up for an IS-BR.
	Operational Readiness Award (ORA) Presented for achievements made during competitions and events. Multiple awards may be presented for an individual achievement based on the nature of the excellence demonstrated. Where the Iron Star recognizes placement in a competition, competition runners can set up objectives for participants to complete and earn the ORA. Each competition presents unique opportunities for objectives, so they'd be discussed between the competition runner and the TCCOM before the competition is approved. The ORA is upgraded as a pilot receives more of them, starting with the First Circle (-1C) at five awards, Second Circle (-2C) at 25 awards, Third Circle (-3C) at 125 awards, then further levels every additional 125 awards.
	Legion of Combat (LoC) Awarded for participation and victory in Player vs. Player (PvP) rounds. This medal is upgradable with the following devices: Copper Scimitar - 5 victories Iridium Scimitar - 50 victories Thallium Scimitar - 100 victories Rubidium Scimitar - 200 victories Platinum Scimitar - 500 victories
	Legion of Skirmish (LoS) Awarded for participation and victory in cooperative Player vs. Environment (co-op PvE) rounds. There must be at least two human players in the match in order to be eligible for the LoS. This medal is upgradable with the following devices: Copper Scimitar - 5 victories Iridium Scimitar - 50 victories Thallium Scimitar - 100 victories Rubidium Scimitar - 200 victories Platinum Scimitar - 500 victories
	Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) The Distinguished Flying Cross is awarded by the Combat Operations Officer for being declared the winning participant of a Combat Operations Office-approved multiplayer event. Additional awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross are the: Bronze Wings - Awarded for receiving the DFC five times Silver Wings - Awarded for receiving the DFC ten times Gold Wings - Awarded for receiving the DFC twenty times
	Order of the Vanguard (OV) The Order of the Vanguard is awarded to members for extended service in the fleet. It is granted for one year of service in the Emperor's Hammer, with an additional Echelon being awarded each additional year. This is the only medal that is awarded automatically by the database. The uniform ribbon for the OV starts at the base red ribbon with no device which represents one year of service. White pips are added each additional year. The following ribbon is worn for the OV-5E. A gold pip represents five years. The following ribbon is worn for the OV-6E. A blue pip represents ten years. The following ribbon is worn for the OV-11E. Over time, the pips can really add up. The following ribbon is worn for the OV-20E.

Commendations

	Commendation of Bravery (CoB) The Commendation of Bravery is awarded to a member who has shown consistent dedication in combat by completing at least 30 missions or online combat engagements (or a combination of both). This commendation can only be awarded once.
	Commendation of Excellence (CoE) The Commendation of Excellence is awarded by the EH Internet Office for consistent support, maintenance and creation of official Emperor’s Hammer webpages and websites.
	Commendation of Loyalty (CoL) The Commendation of Loyalty is awarded by the Fleet Commander or Executive Officer to members of the Emperor’s Hammer who have displayed consistently excellent service to the Fleet. It may be recommended only twice a year, at the occasions of the Emperor's Hammer Anniversary (January 7th) and the founder of the Emperor’s Hammer, Grand Admiral Ronin's Birthday (August 21st) of each Standard Imperial Year.
	Commendation of Service (CoS) The Commendation of Service is awarded by the Tactical Officer to members who provide an approved storyline for a custom battle. This is usually an extra award in a Tactical Office sponsored mission design competition. The CoS can only be awarded to a member who does not create this battle himself (as he is then awarded the Medal of Tactics). Although preferred, the approved storyline need not necessarily lead to an EH approved battle being released.
	Letter of Achievement (LoA) The Letter of Achievement is awarded for each newsletter submission that is published in the Emperor’s Hammer Dark Sentinel or TIE Corps newsletter.

Procedures

Even though a great many recommendations and requests are made through the database, it is necessary to follow certain procedures to avoid any problems and confusion as well as to maintain order throughout TIE Corps ranks.

Appointments

Appointment procedures are fairly simple. First, the pilot applying for a given position must send in an application to the officer in charge, as specified in the application requirements. All applications are then reviewed by this officer and their superiors, and afterwards a request is sent to the Strategic Operations Officer and TIE Corps Commander to appoint the member to a given position. This may be carried out through whichever communications platform is desired.

Transfers

During a pilot's career in the TIE Corps, they might find themselves in need of a transfer to another unit. Most of the transfers connected with appointments and restructures are performed by the TCCOM without the need for any input from the pilot. Transfers between units, though, should be initiated by the pilot so that there’s no question that the pilot wants to be transferred.

To request a transfer, contact the TCCOM. The TCCOM will then seek out all the needed acknowledgements and approvals before moving forward.

Promotions and Awards

Although all promotions and awards are handled through the use of the database, it is recommended that they should be discussed with superior officers before filling in an official recommendation. A good moment for such a discussion is during the period of handing in and reviewing monthly evaluations, so that the promotion and medal requests may be considered by either the Wing Commander/Commodore and the Strategic OperationsOfficer/TIE Corps Commander. This is done to ensure that all recommendations are properly discussed by the chain of command and also to minimize the number of promotions and medal denials in the database.

Creating Competitions

Anyone in the Corps may submit a competition through the form in the database (Submit a new competition to the TCCOM), which is sent to the COO for review before being posted as an active competition in the Competitions Center. If they are not a CMDR or above, though, they would need someone else to submit the medal recommendations for any awards earned by participants in the competition.

Squadron Citations

A squadron possessing at least six members will be credited for any battle that at least half of the present members have completed, thus earning a Squadron Citation. The citations achieved by a squadron can be viewed on the Squadron Battleboards on the TIE Corps site.

Titles

Command officers may bestow titles like “Wing Commander's Own”, “Pilot of the Week”, etc., to various members and units of the TIE Corps. Such a title should be considered permanent unless stated otherwise by the officer bestowing the given title and may be used below the ID line of a member. The naming of the titles and requirements for achieving them are left up to the creator to determine, though these will generally be reviewed by the TCCOM as part of a competition.

Absent Without Leave (AWOL)

Pilots should communicate with their immediate superior at least once every 30 days. Not doing so could lead to the pilot being declared AWOL and being removed from their active duty assignment. It’s expected that the superior officer will proactively reach out to the pilot as opposed to simply looking back and seeing that the pilot hasn’t communicated with them in the last 30 days. An AWOL declaration is subject to approval from the chain of command before being actioned.

Pilots that are declared AWOL are not moved to the Reserves. They are tagged as [Inactive] in the database, may not log in, are not assigned to the M/FRG Phoenix or any other unit, are removed from the TIE Corps mailing list, and are removed from all Discord roles. Inactive pilots may contact the TCCOM to be assigned to the Reserves or be returned to active duty.

Activity Expectation

If a FM or FL hasn’t been active for two consecutive months, the CMDR may ask for that pilot to be transferred to the Reserves. A FM or FL should be doing more than just communicating with the CMDR once in a while, it’s expected that the pilot should be flying missions, participating in competitions, working on Wiki articles, taking IU courses, writing fiction, creating graphics, or showing an effort in some other way that shows a contribution to the Corps. Sometimes pilots lose track of how long it's been since they've been an active part of their squadrons, and the goal of this process is to allow the CMDR to make the call in situations where the pilot doesn't have time for us but doesn’t request to be transferred to the Reserves. A request to transfer a pilot to the Reserves is subject to approval from the chain of command before being actioned.

File Submission

Most TIE Corps competitions are run over a set amount of time. Using the clock to one’s advantage by saving up submissions and turning them in during the last day or two of a competition is known as “hoarding”, considered bad sportsmanship, and may result in disqualification from the competition. Files should be submitted within 72 hours of their creation or completion. If this cannot be avoided, the pilot should communicate with the officer running the competition so that an exception can be considered.

Flight Certification Wings

Shown on the pilot’s profile and their dress uniform, the Flight Certification Wings (FCW) reflect the pilot’s combat experience.

Point values for the activities that contribute to a pilot’s wings:

• 1 point for each single player mission flown
• 2 points for each mission high score
• 2 points for each mission in the battle for each battle high score
• 1 point for each Legion of Combat
• 1 point for each Legion of Skirmish
• 10 points for each Iron Star with Copper Wings
• 12 points for each Iron Star with Bronze Wings
• 14 points for each Iron Star with Silver Wings
• 16 points for each Iron Star with Gold Wings
• 18 points for each Distinguished Flying Cross
• 20 points for each Iron Star with Platinum Wings

	1st Echelon 10 points
	2nd Echelon 25 points
	3rd Echelon 50 points
	4th Echelon 75 points
	5th Echelon 100 points
	6th Echelon 150 points
	7th Echelon 200 points
	8th Echelon 250 points
	9th Echelon 300 points
	10th Echelon 400 points
	11th Echelon 500 points
	12th Echelon 750 points
	13th Echelon 1000 points
	14th Echelon 1250 points
	15th Echelon 1500 points
	16th Echelon 2000 points
	17th Echelon 2500 points
	18th Echelon 3000 points
	19th Echelon 3500 points
	20th Echelon 4000 points
	21st Echelon 5000 points

Fleet Commander's Honor Guard

The Fleet Commander's Honor Guard (FCHG) is a special ranking system that ranks pilots in the TIE Corps by single player combat activity and performance using a point system:

• Grenadier – 10 points
• Lancer – 25 points
• Hussar – 50 points
• Fusilier – 75 points
• Dragoon – 100 points
• Cavalier – 150 points
• Gallant – 200 points
• Knight – 250 points
• Paladin – 300 points
• Legionnaire – 400 points
• Aquilifer – 500 points
• Decurion – 750 points
• Tesserarius – 1000 points
• Optio – 1250 points
• Centurion – 1500 points
• Executor – 2000 points
• Gladiator – 2500 points
• Archon – 3000 points
• Templar – 3500 points
• Imperator – 4000 points

Points are awarded for the following flight activity:

• every mission flown – 1 point
• every mission high score – 2 points
• every battle high score – 2 points times the number of missions in the battle

The list of pilots that hold each FCHG rank can be found on this listing on the TIE Corps site.

Additionally, the TCCOM awards merit medals to pilots that have reached certain FCHG ranks:

• Dragoon – 100 points – Imperial Security Medal
• Knight – 250 points – Palpatine Crescent
• Aquilifer – 500 points – Bronze Star of the Empire
• Executor – 2000 points – Silver Star of the Empire
• Imperator – 4000 points – Gold Star of the Empire

PvP Combat Rating

The PvP Combat Rating is a special ranking system, similar to Fleet Commander's Honor Guard (FCHG), which rates pilots and officers in the TIE Corps by multiplayer player vs. player (PvP) combat activity and performance using a point system:

• Trainee – 1 point
• Certified – 10 points
• Marksman 4th – 25 points
• Marksman 3rd – 50 points
• Marksman 2nd – 75 points
• Marksman 1st – 100 points
• Officer 4th – 150 points
• Officer 3rd – 200 points
• Officer 2nd – 250 points
• Officer 1st – 300 points
• Veteran 4th – 375 points
• Veteran 3rd – 450 points
• Veteran 2nd – 525 points
• Veteran 1st – 600 points
• Elite 4th – 700 points
• Elite 3rd – 800 points
• Elite 2nd – 900 points
• Elite 1st – 1000 points
• Ace 4th – 1250 points
• Ace 3rd – 1500 points
• Ace 2nd – 1750 points
• Ace 1st – 2000 points
• Top Ace 4th – 2500 points
• Top Ace 3rd – 3000 points
• Top Ace 2nd – 3500 points
• Top Ace 1st – 4000 points
• Tan – 5000 points

Points are awarded for the following flight activity:

• every Legion of Combat earned – 1 point
• every Distinguished Flying Cross earned – 5 points

The list of pilots that hold each Combat Rating can be found on this listing on the TIE Corps site.

Additionally, the COO awards merit medals to pilots that have reached certain combat ratings:

• Marksman 1st – 100 points – Imperial Security Medal
• Officer 1st – 300 points – Palpatine Crescent
• Veteran 1st – 600 points – Bronze Star of the Empire
• Ace 1st – 2000 points – Silver Star of the Empire
• Tan – 5000 points – Gold Star of the Empire

Co-Op Combat Rating

The Co-Op Combat Rating is a special ranking system, similar to Fleet Commander's Honor Guard (FCHG), which rates pilots and officers in the TIE Corps by multiplayer player vs. environment (PvE) combat activity and performance using a point system:

• Beginner – 1 point
• Qualified – 10 points
• Private 4th – 25 points
• Private 3rd – 50 points
• Private 2nd – 75 points
• Private 1st – 100 points
• Gunner’s Mate 4th – 150 points
• Gunner’s Mate 3rd – 200 points
• Gunner’s Mate 2nd – 250 points
• Gunner’s Mate 1st – 300 points
• Campaigner 4th – 375 points
• Campaigner 3rd – 450 points
• Campaigner 2nd – 525 points
• Campaigner 1st – 600 points
• Ranger 4th – 700 points
• Ranger 3rd – 800 points
• Ranger 2nd – 900 points
• Ranger 1st – 1000 points
• Master Ranger 4th – 1250 points
• Master Ranger 3rd – 1500 points
• Master Ranger 2nd – 1750 points
• Master Ranger 1st – 2000 points
• Ace Ranger 4th – 2500 points
• Ace Ranger 3rd – 3000 points
• Ace Ranger 2nd – 3500 points
• Ace Ranger 1st – 4000 points
• Top Ace Ranger – 5000 points

Every Legion of Skirmish earned counts as 1 point in this system. Currently, LoSs are the only source of Co-Op Combat Rating points.

The list of pilots that hold each Co-Op PvE Rating can be found on this listing on the TIE Corps site.

Additionally, the COO awards merit medals to pilots that have reached certain Co-Op Combat Ratings:

• Private 1st – 100 points – Imperial Security Medal
• Gunner’s Mate 1st – 300 points – Palpatine Crescent
• Campaigner 1st – 600 points – Bronze Star of the Empire
• Master Ranger 1st – 2000 points – Silver Star of the Empire
• Top Ace Ranger – 5000 points – Gold Star of the Empire

Playing Custom Missions

Emperor's Hammer Battle Launcher

Playing custom missions made by Emperor's Hammer members for X-Wing (XW, XW95), TIE Fighter (TIE, TIE95), X-wing vs. TIE Fighter (XvT), Balance of Power (BoP) and X-wing Alliance (XWA) is one of the primary activities available to TIE Corps pilots.

Note: This manual assumes that you have already installed a playable version of one or more of the games mentioned above and patched it to the highest possible version and as such shall not address the problem of running those games on different hardware and operating systems.

There are currently two ways of playing Emperor's Hammer custom missions: you can use the unencrypted version (downloadable via the Battle Center, choose to download the ZIP file), or the encrypted version (choose to download the EHM file). There is no difference between these versions. Note that if you downloaded the EHM version but there is a ZIP file on your computer you need to rename this back to EHM. In that case, unzipping the archive and manually installing the files will not allow you to play the missions.

To install a ZIP version, you will have to manually install the necessary files into their appropriate folders on your computer. See the installation instructions provided within the ZIP file. To install an EHM version, make sure you have the Emperor's Hammer Battle Launcher (EHBL) installed. All you will have to do then is double-click on the EHM file and the missions will be installed for you. The EHBL is available for download in the Battle Center.

To install the EHBL for use, download the file from the website, extract the archive and run the installation file. Once installed, open the program by clicking the icon on your desktop, and make sure the game directories are set properly (in the File menu choose Directories).

Important: XWA requires you play using a pilot file that has completed the LucasArts original missions, which can be provided by the Tactical Office, when necessary. You should rename the pilot file prior to copying it into your XWA directory. If you are playing the EHM version of a battle, you can use the EHBL to create a new pilot (Game -> XWA Options -> Pilot Options -> New Pilot - make sure to check the 'Prepare for EH Battle' box).

The recommended format for a pilot file filename is PIN_PLATFORM_BATTLENUMBER, for instance 12519_TIETC_201.TFR. You may also include your name in the filename.

Once you have completed all the missions for the battle you have chosen, you can submit the pilot file for approval using the "Submit singleplayer battle flown (BSF)" function on the TIE Corps site.

Emperor's Hammer Ship Patcher

A number of Emperor's hammer Custom Missions require you to patch the game, which simply means craft not supplied with the game itself can be used. This will allow you to fly non-standard craft. These patches are installed via the Emperor's Hammer Ship Patcher (EHSP) which is available through the Emperor's Hammer Patch Archive.

To install the EHSP, simply follow the instructions the program provides.

Ship Patches

A ship patch (EHSP) is available for TIE Fighter, X-wing vs. TIE Fighter and Balance of Power. It is recommended you install this, as you will not be able to fly a number of battles without it. For each of these games, the EHSP adds a number of craft to the game. Also, in TIE Fighter it fixes a bug in the game where Imperial Star Destroyers do not fire their turbolasers. Also, the EHSP is required if you wish to run custom ship patches. It is recommended you keep the EHSP installed. There is no EHSP for X-Wing Alliance.

Single Craft Patches

The Emperor's Hammer Patch Archive provides a large supply of single craft patches that you can use. Note that if you do not install a required patch, the mission that employs it may not be winnable. For TIE Fighter, X-wing vs. TIE Fighter, Balance of Power and X-Wing Alliance, these single ship patches come in the form of an EHF file. These patches can be installed and uninstalled via the EHSP. These patches have been tested to work on all operating systems.

Unfortunately, since there is no EHSP for X-wing Alliance, the single ship patches for this game rely on the old patching system: the patches are downloadable as a ZIP file that needs to be extracted. They can then be installed and uninstalled via the included BAT files. See the patch readme file for instructions.

Remember you should always remove a single ship patch after completing a battle to make sure there will be no problems if you decide to fly another battle or mission at a later time.

ID Lines

ID lines are used to show a member’s position, rank and where they are stationed in the fleet. They should be used on all official Emperor's Hammer communications so that other members will know who you are and you will know who they are. Considering the multi-group nature of the Emperor’s Hammer, it’s considered good email etiquette to use only the ID line of the subgroup that will be receiving the message. For example, when emailing a member of the TIE Corps, sign the message with just your TIE Corps ID line.

The general format for TIE Corps ID Lines is shown below:

Position/Rank Member Name/Position Designation/Wing/Ship/Battlegroup
Medals (highest to lowest) [FCHG Rank] [PvP Combat Rating] [PvE Combat Rating] {IU courses completed}

With the large number of IU courses available, the TIE Corps has elected to only display certain courses on ID lines. These courses were chosen as they’re the most immediately useful things to know about an officer’s academic history. Those courses are as follows:

• TIE Corps Core
• Combat Operations Exam 1/2
• Mission Creation and Beta Testing Standards
• Multiplayer 1/2
• Squadron Management 1/2/3/4/5
• Tactical Staff Course
• TIE Fighter Mission Creation 1/2/3
• Wiki Editing for Dummies
• XWA Mission Design
• X-Wing Mission Design
• XvT Mission Design 1/2

Example ID line:

FM/LT Joe/Alpha 3-4/Wing I/ISD Hammer/Battlegroup I
PC/ISM/CoB [Gallant] [Officer 4th] {TCCORE}

Another example ID line:

FM/GN Elwood the Brave/Gamma 1-3/Wing I/ISDII Hammer/Battlegroup I
MoH/IC/GOEx2/GSx21/SSx65/BSx25/PCx25/ISMx24/IAR/MoT-3bh/MoI/MoC-8doc-8poc-9goc-9soc-75boc/MUA/IS-13PW-204GW-489SW-695BW-2GR-20SR-59BR-3CR/ORA-1C/LoC-9PS/LoS-78PS/DFC-GW/CoLx13/CoB/LoAx25/OV-23E [Archon] [Tan] [Top Ace Ranger] {TCCORE-COE/2-MCBS-MP/2-SM/2/3/4/5-TM/1-WIKI-XAM-XMD-XTM/1}

It’s also acceptable to use only the first line of the ID line especially when the full ID line might dwarf the message itself:

TCCOM-PROF/HA Daniel Bonini/TC-1/ISDII Challenge/Battlegroup III

If you’ve included your full ID line earlier in a thread of messages, feel free to sign any additional messages with just your rank and name. With your full ID line having been displayed earlier, anyone reading the thread should have the information they’d need to know who you are.

Squadron Objectives

Presented below are various objectives that may be permanently assigned to various squadrons in the TIE Corps:

Assault To assault and assist in capture of heavily defended objectives.

Assassination To kill specific targets very quickly deep in enemy territory. Both kidnapping and assassination squadrons would be able to perform these missions in small flight groups so large amounts of Emperor's Hammer assets are not risked.

Close Support Similar to Assault, but to assist strike squadrons in the destruction of their targets by drawing enemy fire and providing precise counter fire.

Deep Space Depredation To execute strategic attacks on objectives behind the front lines. Once targets are destroyed, the squadron may either return or attack targets of opportunity. Depending on the targets, these operations can have both psychological and physical effects on the enemy's war effort.

Deep Strike To launch surprise attacks deep into enemy-held territory and assault locations where either the Strike Fleet cannot go or the Strike Fleet can go but would be in extreme risk of destruction or capture.

A Deep Strike Squadron's objectives are to: assist other Imperial Forces when the fleet is otherwise engaged once particular individuals/ship targets have been identified by Fleet Command but cannot be reached through normal means, launch and strike assist recon squadrons by providing reinforcements, if available

Escort To protect all designated Flight Groups from threats.

Heavy Assault Same as for Assault, but specialized in target’s destruction.

Interdiction To eliminate a target’s capability to flee, in any manner possible, up to and including destruction of the target. It might also be necessary to inspect an unknown (but suspect) flight group to determine which, if any, targets should be prepared for capture/disabling (always preferable to destruction).

Kidnapping Similar to Assassination, but specializes in snatching important figures deep in enemy territory.

Long Range Support To provide long range missile fire for other squadrons when they attack lightly shielded targets (or those with massive fighter defenses); or to provide point-blank bombing support against heavily shielded targets (or those with minimal fighter defenses).

Pacification This squadron is tasked with launching terror strikes, reducing a population of a planet deemed worthless to the Emperor's Hammer to the most barren of lives, destroying industries key to the inhabitants but worthless to the Emperor's Hammer, etc., thus operating to prevent the need for more drastic measures (for example orbital bombardment). Their secondary objectives are to assist planetary garrisons in keeping an occupied world pacified, assist army units engaged in “mop-up” operations, and if not engaged, to serve as the Emperors’ Hammer Strike Fleet’s reserve starfighter squadron (similar to the Deep Strike squadron).

Psychological Warfare To create even more fear in the hearts of Rebels. This squadron's primary goal is to instigate fear in enemy forces by constant harassment and sudden strikes.

Recon To locate and inspect any craft in an area and (if necessary) stop it until reinforcements can arrive to assist in capture/destruction, or to probe a known target's defenses in preparation for further action by the Emperor's Hammer forces.

Space Supremacy To achieve complete space/air control over a region/planet, effectively denying any capacity from the adversary to interfere in said region or planet. Achieving space or air supremacy, or at least superiority, makes it easier for other squadrons to successfully achieve their mission(s).

Special Insertion/Extraction To make insertions of agents/spies deep inside enemy territory and getting them and their information back to our intelligence agents.

Special Forces Trained to deal with extreme combat situations in space, in the air, and on the ground, Special Forces units are often called upon to carry out missions involving multiple theaters. Just as deadly with a blaster as they are at the controls of a starfighter, these are the commandos the Emperor’s Hammer relies on when a particular objective is imperative to the success of a larger operation.

Strike To attack and destroy all enemy craft (unless otherwise ordered).

Test Squadron To test all new craft and discover strengths and weaknesses of that craft. Design tactics for that craft to give pilots better chances of completing their missions and surviving. Captured enemy craft will also be evaluated by the squadron.

Training To provide the Emperor’s Hammer Strike Force with a steady supply of replacement pilots trained in all Imperial craft.

VIP Escort To defend extremely important people and material.

Uniforms

The Emperor's Hammer TIE Corps utilizes standardized uniform templates, just like the Empire did. There are three basic types of uniforms regularly worn by Emperor’s Hammer officers: a flight suit, a duty uniform and a dress uniform. Which uniform is worn depends on the type of duty or occasion.

All uniforms must be approved by the Strategic Operations Officer before being displayed on a pilot's profile.

See https://tc.emperorshammer.org/uniforms.php in the TC database for information on how to create your uniform.

Combat Pilot Uniform

The uniform of a combat pilot is thoroughly utilitarian. The only marks of distinction are the rank insignia and position badges. This is the uniform worn while on combat missions in a single seater fighter craft.

It consists of a pressure suit and helmet. By default both are black, with the helmet sporting a silver Imperial symbol (as opposed to the white symbols used by other Imperial pilots) and possibly a squadron patch. Pilot's callsign is indicated on the front of the reinforced part of the helmet.

Since TIE Corps pilots are considered the most elite group of pilots, they are allowed to use non-standard colors and patterns on their flight suits in order to flesh out their individuality.

Duty Uniform

The duty uniform is worn while on regular duty aboard ship, on stations and at other Emperor's Hammer facilities. It is the standard everyday uniform of all Emperor’s Hammer officers. It follows the standard Imperial pattern of duty uniforms.

It consists of an olive grey double-breasted tunic and trousers, a matching cap and black durasteel-capped boots. The only distinctions are the rank insignia on the left breast and code cylinders, indicating position, in the pockets.

Dress Uniform

The dress uniform is usually worn on official occasions, while attending important military events or celebrations and also during any formal occasions when officers wearing it are representing the Emperor's Hammer. It can be also used for non-military affairs, like light social occasions, dinner engagements and similar.

It consists of a dark double-breasted tunic with matching trousers and durasteel-capped boots. The tunic sports numerous golden elements, such as buttons, shoulder pads and symbols on the sleeves. Lining colour depends on the ship a member is based on – ISDII Hammer pilots wear green, ISDII Warrior pilots wear red, and ISDII Challenge pilots wear blue. Admirals wear gold lining.

The rank insignia are worn on the left breast, whereas position is indicated by the sleeve symbols. All medals are displayed – merit ones in full on the left breast, with ribbons representing other medals just above them. The Imperial Cross and Grand Order of the Emperor are worn about the neck, while the Medal of Honor and Order of the Renegade are displayed on the right breast. Fleet Commander's Honor Guard insignia and flying wings are also present. The squadron patch may be put on both of the sleeves, near the shoulders.

Recipients of the Grand Order of the Emperor may display their ceremonial dagger on the dress uniform. Pilots who are also Dark Brotherhood members and have attained the rank of Sith Knight or higher may display their lightsaber. GOE recipients and Sith Knights have demonstrated their commitment to the service of the Emperor’s Hammer such that they are permitted to retain their weapons when normally they would not be allowed at official functions or in the presence of the Fleet Commander.

The Emperor's Hammer Strike Fleet

The Fleet is composed of over a dozen Imperial II-class Star Destroyers with numerous cruisers, frigates and corvettes serving as escort ships for them. The flagship of the Emperor's Hammer navy is the Sovereign-class Super Star Destroyer Sovereign that serves as the command center for the entire Emperor's Hammer Strike Fleet. The Sovereign is home not only to the finest officers and pilots, but also several members of the Command Staff, including the Executive Officer and Fleet Commander. While the First Recon Division is mobilized, the EHCS has been moved to the Super Star Destroyer Avenger.

The TIE Corps is currently stationed aboard three Imperial II-class Star Destroyers: the ISDII Hammer, the ISDII Warrior, and the ISDII Challenge. In addition, the COO is stationed aboard the Victory II-class Star Destroyer Aggressor.

Another important place is the Modified Platform Daedalus, which houses the Daedalus Military Academy. Normally, all Cadets entering the Corps start their journey here before being assigned to an active duty squadron. While the First Recon Division is mobilized, cadet training has been moved to the Imperial Weapons and Tactics School (IWATS) aboard the Super Star Destroyer Avenger.

Online Bases of Operations

The Emperor's Hammer operates mainly using the Internet and has a strong presence there. Here are the most important sites connected to the Emperor's Hammer and TIE Corps:

http://www.emperorshammer.org – the main site of Emperor's Hammer

http://tc.emperorshammer.org – the main site of TIE Corps

http://tac.emperorshammer.org – the main site of Tactical Office

http://sco.emperorshammer.org – the main site of Science Office

http://tc.emperorshammer.org/battlecenter.php – the Mission Compendium of Emperor's Hammer custom missions

http://tc.emperorshammer.org/patcharchive.php – the Patch Archive containing patches for TIE Corps game platforms

https://discord.emperorshammer.org - Invite link for the TIE Corps Discord server

irc.undernet.org - the Emperor's Hammer also utilizes the Internet Relay Chat (IRC). It is an instant message type of chat room. The Emperor's Hammer currently resides on the Undernet network, so in order to join any of our channels you should first join an Undernet server, which can be done with the link on the left. Additionally, the list of Undernet servers is available at http://www.undernet.org/servers.php. The list of main TIE Corps and Emperor's Hammer channels can be found on the TIE Corps main site, at http://tc.emperorshammer.org/irc.php.

Note: The regulations regarding behavior on Emperor's Hammer live communication platforms are listed in the Code of Conduct at http://www.emperorshammer.org/page.php?page=coc. All Emperor’s Hammer members are subject to these rules and need to abide by them. Lack of knowledge of the Code of Conduct shall not be accepted as an excuse.

Bylaws

Bylaws define the goals and purposes of the Emperor's Hammer existence and can be found at http://www.emperorshammer.org/page.php?page=bylaws.

Articles of War

Articles of War are rules and procedures connected with the Emperor's Hammer martial law, military jurisdiction, treatment of spies and deserters, and the judicial system overall. The current Articles of War can be found at http://www.emperorshammer.org/page.php?page=aow.

Note: All members of the Emperor's Hammer are subject to the Articles of War. Lack of knowledge of them shall not be accepted as an excuse.

Privacy Policy/Disclaimers/Copyrights

The current Privacy Policy of the Emperor's Hammer can be found here and the Disclaimers and Copyrights can be found here.