It's been a while since I wrote anything concerning Star Wars. Things just haven't been coming to me like they were. It's been a while since I saw anything concerning Star Wars. What??? No Star Wars??? How could you??? Then yesterday, I decided to watch The Phantom Menace. My Star Wars Groove is back!! YIPPEEEEE!!!!!! Then it hit me: a blog about Vader's skill as a pilot.
Vader was a formidable opponent when it came to flying. His skills first came about well before his turn to the Dark Side. As a slave boy on Tatooine, as Anakin Skywalker, Vader's skills were apparent. This was due to his high midi-chlorian count which gave him exceptional Force potential. This potential gave the impression of lightning-fast reflexes, which allowed him to participate in the very dangerous- even deadly- sport of podracing. As Anakin Skywalker, Vader accounted this to instinct, since he had no knowledge of the Force at the time.
His great Force potential- and the skill in flying which came with it- allowed him to destroy the Trade Federation droid control ship, flying out in the knick of time. It also allowed him to land the destroyed Invisible Hand, a seemingly impossible feat. Makes you wonder at the ability Vader had as a skilled pilot.
Even after the duel on Mustafar, Vader's precognition abilities did not diminish. He was still considered to be one of the best pilots in the GFFA. Vader felt at ease behind the controls of a modified Eta-2 interceptor or his modified TIE advanced fighter. His skill in opening fire just before passing through enemy formations- leaving little time for evasion- made Vader a dangerous opponent. His sensitivity to the Force also allowed him to shake off target locks as well as chase targets down. Indeed, it was in the best interest of Vader's enemies- whether in the form of Anakin Skywalker or Darth Vader- to NOT get within targeting range of any ship Vader personally manned!! Vader's enemies never wanted to EVER end up on the wrong end of the battle whenever Vader was in it.
So the next time you watch the saga, pay more attention to Vader and his flying skills. Cuz they're just awesome!!
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Sorry about the pic. I can't find one of Vader's craft.