The fleet that appears with Commodore Riker lacks very large Galaxy- or Sovereign-class ships and instead contains many similar vessels. This makes more sense if Starfleet distinguishes long-range exploration cruisers from security or patrol cruisers and frigates. The Zheng He group can then be understood as a more numerous fighting force whose ships retain a recognizably Starfleet appearance without the Defiant's overtly aggressive look. The contrast suggests a force structure with expensive, far-ranging generalists alongside ships that can be fielded in numbers for combat-oriented duties.
Notable Point · 8:04-9:37
Exploration cruisers imply a wider Starfleet force structure
The Galaxy is a long-range exploration cruiser, while the Zheng He and similar ships suggest more numerous security, patrol, or frigate-like roles.