TIE Interceptor

Description

Endor's sharpest fighter

In Return of the Jedi, the Empire sends TIE Interceptors against the Rebel fleet during the Battle of Endor. They are faster and more agile than standard TIE fighters, and their four angular, forward-swept wings give them a far more aggressive look. Rebel pilots in A-wings and X-wings have their hands full with them while the Death Star's shield is being brought down. For many fans, the Interceptor is the high point of Imperial starfighter design in the original trilogy.

Symmetry makes it simple

Only 18 of the 48 pieces are distinct elements, which reflects the model's symmetrical design. The wings are built from matching parts, so many pieces are repeated several times. That gives the build a steady rhythm and makes it easy for younger builders to follow. Light bluish grey and black are the leading colours, with dark bluish grey and trans-clear following. No minifigures are included, so the focus stays entirely on the fighter's distinctive shape.

Pairing it with other ships

The finished Interceptor is light enough to fly around by hand and small enough to live on a desk. It makes a natural opponent for small Rebel fighters from Return of the Jedi, and it also sits nicely beside other TIE variants if you have been collecting them. Lined up together, the different wing shapes show just how many variations the Empire's basic fighter design went through, from the original fighter to later, more specialised craft.

Parts at a glance

The parts list on this page shows all 18 distinct elements with their colour and quantity. Because so many pieces repeat, checking a used copy is quick. Greys and blacks are among the most useful colours for your own spacecraft, so the parts will not go to waste once the model is taken apart. The What can I build? feature compares your collection with other sets and shows the ones you could already complete.

FAQ

How is the TIE Interceptor different from a TIE fighter?

It has four pointed, angular wings instead of hexagonal panels. It is also faster and more manoeuvrable.

How many pieces does set 30685 have?

It has 48 pieces with 18 distinct elements. No minifigures are included.

Why are there so few distinct elements?

The fighter is symmetrical, so the wings reuse the same parts several times.