Neo Classic Space

The prototype for what became the LL-892 skimmer was originally developed in response to Staff Requirement SR-10317, which specified the need for a high performance aerial patrol vehicle codenamed 'Security Patrol/Light Aero - Next Generation' (SP/LA-NG) to replace the LL-885p, the patrol variant of the venerable Space Scooter. One of the main deficiencies of the Space Scooter was its limited range and its inability to operate in even the thinnest of atmospheres. SP/LA-NG was to incorporate a new mixed-mode engine that was able to operate equally well in either vacuum or thin atmosphere.

However, when the SR-10317 programme was cancelled, following the now infamous 'Strategic Space Review', the SPL/A-NG prototype was mothballed.

Within two years the prototype had been resurrected to meet SR-11333, which called for a two-crew rapid aerial transport as a replacement for LL-891, under the programme name 'Transport/Light Aero - Next Generation' (T/LA-NG). To meet the new requirement, the SP/LA-NG lost all of its offensive armament but gained improved range and acceleration due to weight and power savings.

Retaining many of the design features of the LL-891, the LL-892 “Advanced Space Skimmer” (as the T/LA-NG was officially named when it was released into service) provided vastly increased levels of performance and crew protection, and rapidly won many fans. Although larger and more complex than its predecessor, its modular design allowed for very easy maintenance. This also encouraged modification - numerous custom versions rapidly appeared, with survey, courier, and surveillance drone versions amongst the first to appear.