The v-188 Penetrator, even though it was first introduced during the Clone Wars, still maintains its status as one of the heaviest energy cannons to grace the battlefield. Still considered to be a monstrous weapon of war, the v-188 remains in use amongst the Imperial Army. One large weakness befalls this weapon. Its DF ratio (range, in kilometres, over which a single tube-charge loses eight percent of its energy. At about eight times this range, the charge has lost approximately half its power) is poor. Suffering from rapid energy dispersal (poor bolt coherency rate), at long range the shot falls below 50 percent of its original strength. Due to sheer size and atrocious power requirements, v-188s are mostly deployed as fixed fortified emplacements. From their positions, a single one of these weapons can sow despair amongst its foes and utterly maintain control of the battlefield.

Few vehicles can resist its awesome power, especially at short range. Even our mighty AT-ATs must treat the v-188 as a serious threat. Unfortunately, the Rebellion has managed to get their treacherous hands on these heavy arms. Considered to be one of the heaviest pieces in Rebel hands, the majority of them remain stored in secure warehouses, in preparation for conventional warfare. It is known that the Rebels intended to deploy them on Hoth. However, the v-188s were still in their in their shipping crates when Imperial Forces, under the capable leadership of General Veers attacked and destroyed Echo Base.

*After Endor* This weapon continues to see service with the Empire, New Republic, and non-aligned worlds, even five years after the Battle of Endor.