One of the most advanced light warships ever designed, the original plans for the Crusader XX-777 called for an almost unprecedented level of automation, allowing the ship to be operated by a crew a fraction of the size of comparable frigates. This automation was enabled by an incredibly sophisticated second-generation droid brain and logic control center - a product of a secret Correlian Engineering and Loronar Corporations shared research division known as Nerfworks. During normal operations, the droid brain is responsible for everything from navigation, engine management, repair and maintenance via service droids, life support and organic crew sustenance and countless other minor technical adjustments. When engaged in battle, the logic center can automate combat and directly support a sentient captain. Firing solutions, shield management, combat statistics and tactical withdrawal options are either automated and acted upon or provided to the captain for final decision.

The production model of the XX-777 differs significantly from the original design specifications and resulting prototype ship. Prototype XX-777 was more demure and far more heavily armed than the production model. The prototype was designed to be almost entirely autonomous with organic crew requirements being in the single digits. However, the subsequent failure of the XX-777 during weapons testing resulted in a change of direction for the warship. Rumours suggested that the prototype XX-777 gained self-awareness of its maker's intent for it as a warship and recognizing its incredible capacity for destruction, refused to cooperate further. The Prototype breached containment and jumped to hyperspace, never to be seen again.

Subsequently, the droid brains aboard the current generation of Crusader XX-777s are significantly fettered compared to their predecessor. The capacity and overall capability of the logic centers have been reduced, meaning a requirement for more crew members to perform the tasks, necessitating an overall increase in the size of the frigate. Similarly, the ship's armaments were reduced to match the more limited capacities of the droid's brain and logic center. Further, each subsystem for the ship has a physical connection capable of being severed, cutting the ship's intelligence off from that system. Engineers must follow a strict process of resetting and memory wiping the droid brain monthly to avoid unique or concerning personality traits from developing.

These changes however have not stunted the popularity of the XX-777. The final production model presents a slim profile when seen from the bow or stern, with a trio of viewport-like sensor packages mounted on the vertical bow and another pair near the front on either side. Its weapons are mounted on wings that extend from the port and starboard sides near the beginning of the propulsion systems. While incredibly expensive and maintenance-heavy, the XX-777s automation allows them to be fielded by any force that may have more limited personnel than raw resources available. Their ability to supplement large fleets and to operate independently within them is quickly becoming a tactical advantage many are keen to take advantage of.