10 of these dropships were first used to insert FSF, (Federal Security Force), special ops troops, from an orbital transport to the Federal Colony A-T154, to dislodge rebel forces that had taken over the spaceport. Although the Starhawk performed well enough, the DoM, (Department of the Military), needed something that could deliver a punch as well as troops and supplies.  Teirnoc Industries introduced the T-1104 "Albatross" Tactical Assault Carrier. Primarily a supplies mover to be dropped from orbit by an interstellar transport ship, the DoM modified the interior to carry troops, or light armored reconnaissance vehicle(s), up to a maximum of two (2).  

This concept was quickly adapted by planetary assault units, and replaced the aging Starhawks.  The T-1104 "Albatross" can accommodate 2 full squads of 8 men, and a Mission Commander.  Also, an extra two rows of seats can be fitted within the cargo area, bringing the total to a platoon of troops, but the amount of equipment is greatly reduced.  

Armament for the "Albatross" consists of a top turret with two Chanling Industries ion cannons, (for anti-air defense), (or if crew particularly ornery, can be used on ground troops - provided none of the enemy troops survive, as this is against the Genret Convention); a chin turret mounting an 8.5mm machine gun connected to the Co-pilot with a HUD helmet; two nose mounted 5.5mm machine guns and a 20mm autocannon.  All three nose mounted weapons are controlled by the Co-pilot.  There is one weapons mount under each stub wing.  Either a pair of 25mm GAC may be mounted or, Rocket pods carrying 90mm thermobaric fuel air explosive area rockets.  The Top turret and the under wing weapons are controlled by the Weapons Officer.  The ability for the "Albatross" to be dropped from orbit, use VTOL to stay on station, and deliver direct fire support, make the craft very versatile.