The USS Gandhi was a 24th century Federation starship operated by Starfleet. In 2369, the Gandhi was assigned to the Lagana sector on a terraforming mission. Thomas Riker was transferred to the Gandhi in that year following his rescue from Nervala IV. (TNG: "Second Chances" ) Riker later began to express certain "political opinions" that supported the Maquis and their goals while serving aboard the Gandhi. He later deserted the ship to join them in 2371. (DS9: "Defiant")