Unlike the Imperial Star Destroyer, the Venator preserves the middle of the hull for fighter operations, which makes its side-mounted guns a rational compromise. It can remain at the edge of combat and use hyperdrive-equipped fighters without exposing the carrier itself. The air group can divide among several systems or targets, allowing commanders to scout, raid, concentrate, and disengage. Troop capacity adds an amphibious role without displacing the central carrier function. This operational flexibility makes the Venator a much better fit for Star Wars warfare than the later Imperial design.
Chapter · 1:19:47-1:22:37
Venator class: a carrier that exploits distance
The Venator's side armament makes sense because its central hangar and mobile starfighters let it act as a carrier instead of forcing it into the centre of every battle.