If a BC-304 can outrun almost every enemy in hyperspace, why does it need a larger fighter defense?
Short answerMissions often require it to stand and fight, damage may prevent escape, and interdiction could remove the hyperdrive option.
NotesA fast BC-304 cannot always leave when a superior enemy appears. Protecting an allied world, covering an operation, defending an installation, or fighting while damaged can remove that option. Political commitments can also require the ship to hold its ground as a visible representative of Earth rather than abandon an ally. Technologies that interfere with hyperdrive already exist in the setting even if they were not anticipated when the class was designed. Fighters and forward sensors therefore remain useful against missiles and surprise attacks while a tiny fleet cannot afford to treat escape as its only defense.