The USS Rhode Island (NCC-72701) was a variant Federation Template:ShipClass science vessel that was in service with Starfleet in the early 25th century.
Even though the original Template:ShipClass from the 2370s was limited to a maximum warp factor of warp 8 and was considered a planetary research vessel, the Rhode Island was designed for long term deep space assignments.
In an alternate timeline, the Rhode Island was commanded by Captain Harry Kim, and assigned to a four-year exploration mission. In 2404, the Rhode Island defended Admiral Janeway's shuttlecraft when it came under attack by two Klingon Negh'var warships. (VOY: "Endgame")
The Rhode Island was created by Robert Bonchune of Foundation Imaging from the existing modification of the USS Equinox. His modifications included a different bridge dome and the filling in of the gap in front of the primary hull's deflector dish. The engine nacelles and escape pods were also altered.
The Rhode Island may be named after the state of Rhode Island or any one of several the US battleships which have borne the name. According to Larry Nemecek, the name was chosen as a joke; Even though Harry finally gets to command his own starship, it's still only named after the smallest state in the United States. [1](X)
Personnel
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