Retractable weapons pod

The retractable weapons pod was originally developed for Deep Space 9, the latest incarnation of the retractable weapons system featuring a Type XII phaser and a single-tube, rapid-fire quantum torpedo turret system.

At the end of 2369 after Deep Space 9 had been officially established as a Starfleet-administered orbital facility, only 25% of the planned defensive weapons upgrades had been completed. Spares shortages, limited processed materials allocations and long fabrication lead time all contributed to the stretch-out of the upgrade program. The priority systems - the defensive shields and initial sail tower phaser packs - were installed and brought on-line in time to protect the Bajoran wormhole terminus.

The retractable weapons systems are unique amongst Starfleet weapons in that the weapons systems are not visible or protruding from the hull when the station is operating normally. It is only during a red alert situation that the covers slide away and the weapon "pops-up" and locks into place.

• Some of the information listed above is taken from the DS9 Technical Manual.