The T.I.E Starfighter was developed by Sienar Systems to create a fast, small starfighter. To keep mass at a minimum, hyperdrives, life support systems, and power generators were not included. They instead relied on carrier ships, survival suits, and solar generators. The craft was also known as a "T.I.E. Wagon" because of the outward appearence of the craft. Main information source: Wookieepedia Article: T.I.E. Starfighter