The CD-44 Auk is a super heavy dropship, used to transport infantry, vehicles and materials in bulk. It is based on the civilian E-44 Superliner. The Dropship is atmosphere and space capable, with VTOL capabilities and its own slipspace drive, intended to act as an inter-system transport. The CD-44 Auk is used by the UNSC Navy and Air Force to provide space lift capabilities for Army, Navy, Marine and Air Force personnel and material. The Auk has three internally linked decks, with separate docking points. The Auk's unfilled interior is cavernous and can, at maximum, hold three full Companies, plus their associated equipment, usually in the eight modular cargo pods slung underneath its bow. Auk's are well protected, with numerous countermeasure launchers, mine dispensers, a shielding gener