Developed by BlasTech Industries and SoroSuub Munitions, the E-11b is essentially an upgraded version of the E-11 rifle. Boasting a faster firing rate than the original, the E-11b is often reserved for more elite troops since it requires slightly more skill to use proficiently. The main change was the addition of more sophisticated cooling units, making the weapon less likely to overheat at the higher firing rates. Unlike the E-11, which is used almost exclusively by the Galactic Empire, the E-11B has found favour with the New Republic and is more often associated with Republic Commandos than Stormtroopers.