Corvette

A Federation Corvette is a small, maneuverable, lightly armed warship. During Earth's Age of Sail, corvettes were one of many types of smaller warships. The role of the corvette consisted mostly of coastal patrol, fighting minor wars, supporting large fleets, or providing escort for the larger ships. Federation corvettes perform similar roles, including border patrols and minor peacekeeping. Corvettes are often attached to starbases as part of their garrison.