Rama's Ascendant earns high utility because it can rebuild itself after the collapse or disappearance of its supporting civilization. Its AI and crew complement a hull designed with large empty spaces between core systems. Against colossal space-combat missiles, no practical thickness of armour can guarantee survival, so expendable volume lets a penetrating weapon pass through without striking essential machinery. Battle blades provide another sacrificial impact area. Layered defences, fighters, and drones then try to stop the missile before that damage-tolerant structure is needed.
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Rama's Ascendant and surviving enormous missiles
Rama's Ascendant uses a hollow, layered design that accepts missile penetration while protecting the core systems that keep the ship fighting.