From Star Wars: Exodus Visual Encyclopedia

"There's nothing wrong with the Preybirds, sir. They're a quite capable midsize starfighter."

— Captain Ardiff to Admiral Gilad Pellaeon

The SoroSuub Preybird-class Starfighter is a model of heavy starfighter. It is a capable craft for both offensive and defensive purposes, with a heavy laser cannon on each wing, and fore and aft concussion missile launchers. Although the Preybird line is all but discontinued, SoroSuub still sells a limited number of these ships to various groups across the galaxy.

The Preybird is, in most respects, a competent snubfighter, with a heavily-armored hull, but significantly less maneuverability than a TIE Line Fighter or a standard X-wing. However, its large size and intimidating, raptor-like appearance can often make the Preybird appear more powerful than it really is: a tactic often employed by those who use them. Faced with aggressive, unfamiliar fighters, enemies will often surrender rather than risk a confrontation they’re not sure they can win.

The Preybird was designed a few years before the Battle of Endor, intended primarily for sale as an escort fighter on the open market, rather than for use in Sullust's own defense forces. SoroSuub tried to market the fighter to the Empire after the destruction of the second Death Star as an answer to Rebel snubfighters, but Imperial response was tepid at best.

Most Preybirds in the Empire were instead sent to Outer Rim worlds as garrison fighters and few, if any, see action on the frontlines.

[edit] Sources

• Wookieepedia