The Cruiser is the modern equivalent of the Frigate. Although much more powerful than its sailing forebear, it is still designed to be a sea raider and escort. In addition, it can conduct naval bombardment of land targets like a Battleship, but with much less firepower. It also costs much less than a Battleship and moves faster. A Cruiser is not generally able to stand up to enemy Battleships in combat, but it can still fulfill useful scouting functions and attack unescorted Transports.