The R-41 Starchaser is a four engine multi-role starfighter. While similar in most respects to the Z-95 Headhunter, it possesses slightly superior performance qualities. Lacking a droid however, inhibits the R-41 from making full use of its wide weapons' selection. It is an inexpensive and dependable fighter, able to forgo regular maintenance scheduling. Even though the R-41 provides a good combination of armament, speed, and durability, it did not enjoy the extensive popularity of many other starfighter designs of the same era.

    Due to its overloaded frame, and a lack of heavy armour and internal hull bracing, leaves this design vulnerable to well placed hits. To counter this vulnerability, experienced pilots often fly very defensively to bring to bear the R-41's teeth while minimizing the sum of damage suffered. Many less antiquated starfighters have fallen to well-flown Starchasers with the concept espoused by some aces - that the R-41's lack of damage absorption ability dictates that they avoid perilous actions.

    Designed prior to the Clone Wars the R-41 was Hoersh-Kessel Drive's answer to Incom's Z-95 Headhunter. It became evident at the end of the Clone Wars that the Starchaser had become outclassed. This design is not particular good at anything. What this fighter gains in versatility, it loses in effectiveness. Starchasers can be found in use with pirates, criminal organizations, planetary or system defence fleets. In the case of the Rebellion, they were flying R-41s before the Battle of Yavin, and well after.