Object

Potemkin (Starfleet Vessel)

A named Starfleet vessel invoked in dialogue as an illustrative precedent for Commander Riker's unconventional tactics. The Potemkin never appears physically in the scene; characters recall maneuvers associated with actions taken aboard her. The reference functions as a concrete, tactical touchstone rather than a described hull or configuration.

2 appearances

Purpose

A Starfleet command vessel used for patrol, crewed operations, and tactical maneuvers; invoked here as the platform from which Riker executed notable, non‑conventional tactics.

Significance

Serves as a narrative exemplar that grounds Data's statistical models and Troi's moral reframing — the Potemkin provides a concrete case of Riker's unpredictable combat style, converting abstract probability into a human pattern of behavior that propels decisive action.

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

2 moments

S2E21 · Peak Performance

Data's Recursion — Troi Reframes Riker

The Potemkin is referenced as a real-world precedent where Riker disabled power and used a planet's magnetic pole to confuse sensors — an illustrative object of prior tactic that anchors Data's statistical claim.

Before: Exists as an off-stage historical record of Riker's past actions; not physically present.

After: Remains a cited precedent; its tactical implications are acknowledged but ultimately reframed by Troi's focus on Riker's character rather than tactical replication.

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S2E21 · Peak Performance

Troi Passes the Moral Burden to Data

The Potemkin is invoked as an example of Riker's past decisions — shutting down power and using a planet's magnetic pole to confuse sensors. It operates as narrative proof that Riker will use unconventional measures when pressured.

Before: Referred to historically as the ship where Riker employed a risky tactic; not present in scene.

After: Continues to exist as an illustrative precedent in Data's analysis; no physical effect on the current scene.

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