The TIE Interceptor is the direct result of advancements made from Darth Vader's TIE Advanced x1 Prototype and takes its best qualities from it. The TIE Interceptor uses the TIE Starfighter fuselage, drive pod and wing braces. The solar array panels have been elongated and bent for extra power. The forward section of the solar array panels are "Dagger Shape" so the pilot's field of vision is not obscured. While at the same time making the TIE Interceptor far more intimidating and at the same time giving this starfighter a smaller profile than the TIE Advanced x1, thereby making it harder to hit. It has no hyperdrive unit, launcher systems, shield generators or life support. So the pilot must wear fully sealed flight suit.

    The TIE Interceptor are primarily deployed with Imperial or Super Star Destroyers and key Star Bases, such as the ship yards in Kuat and Fondor. The TIE Interceptor was introduced shortly before the Battle of Yavin, but was not put to general use until before the Battle of Endor. These starfighters were designed to counter the design advantages of the X-Wing. The TIE Interceptor is one of the Empire's best dogfighters. The targeting software has been upgraded so the pilot has a greater firing accuracy even during complex manoeuvres. The Empire intended the TIE Interceptor to eventually replace the TIE/ln (TIE Fighter), but by the Battle of Endor only about 20 percent of Imperial starfighters in service were TIE Interceptors. Also the TIE Interceptor uses the same type of ion engines that the TIE Advanced x1 uses. The TIE Interceptor uses a new type of ion stream projector allowing Imperial Pilots to execute tight turns and rolls. Twin-port deflectors can be manipulated individually for fine control and counter-balancing, thereby making this Imperial starfighter a superior choice for dogfights against Rebel ships. In the hands of a skilled pilot, the TIE Interceptor can literally fly circles around X-Wings.