The Val Jean was purchased by the Maquis from a Ferengi merchant, at an inflated price, shortly after the creation of the Demilitarized Zone in 2370. (VOY novelization: Caretaker) In 2371, whilst under the command of Chakotay, the Val Jean was pursued by the Cardassian Galor-class warship, Vetar as she attempted to return to the Maquis base in the Terikof Belt. Gul Aman Evek was able to chase the Val Jean into the Badlands, but the Vetar herself became damaged in the plasma storms.