By the mid-2190s, transtator based subspace transmitters were compact enough to be suitable for fitment to Starfleet vessels other than specialized communications ships. The first ships to carry the new compact transmitters were the Hyperion Class Cruisers launched in 2194. The class had initially been designed as a exploratory follow-up to the Moskva class of 2179. However, when the Mercury subspace communication and sensor system became available, the Hyperion class was seen as an ideal platform. The Mercury system was mounted in a specially shielded housing on the primary hull. The Mark 2 features new more efficient and faster warp engines.