Thrawn: Alliances (Star Wars: Thrawn, #2)

by Timothy Zahn

For another moment Vader was silent. “I am told you believe the navy should focus on small fighter craft.” A flicker of something crossed Thrawn’s face. “I do, my lord.” “The Defender is an excellent ship,” Vader said. “I will speak to the Emperor on behalf of the project.” He raised a finger. “But it needs to be faster, and more heavily armed.” He considered. “The controls, too, should also be made simpler. Not all Imperial pilots are as capable as Captain Skerris.”

Wao so Vader is backing the Defender. but .more or less than the Death Star? Skerris was sent to test the new prototype incorporating Vader recommendations as ins Sr Wars Rebels Season 4 Episode 6