The Chariot-Class is a new replacement for the old Mk-1 Assault Shuttle. After the Knootoss Shadow War there was a realisation that the fleet needed a dedicated ground force and a transport-assault craft capable of operating versus the larger craft fielded by the opposition. Gravships and super-tanks posed a considerable threat to the old Mk-1, and it was decided that the new shuttle would be capable of taking fire from those targets while engaging them and with a reasonable chance of success. Thus the Chariot-Class was born after a long design period. It shuttles 4 squads of soldiers to the surface, then acts as a armored support unit while they advance or hold a position. It's much faster than a tank and more manuverable, and since it can hover it can take advantage of covering terrain and provide a stable firing platform.
When the loading doors are open soldiers can man a tri-barrel that swings down from the overhead door, giving covering fire to disembarking troops. This weapon can also be used in flight if all occupants are wearing hardsuits.

Chariot-Class Specifications
Production Data
Origin: Republic of Sunset
Class and Type: Chariot-Class Assault Shuttle
Date Launched: 2364

Hull Data
Structure: 4
Size/Decks: 1/1 Deck
Length/Height/Beam: 18/3/8 Meters
Complement: 3

Operation Data
Cargo Units: 1
Sensor System: Class 2 (A)
Operations System: Class 2 (A)
Life Support: Class 2 (A)

Propulsion Data
Impulse System: Type I (80g) (C)

Tactical Data
Phaser Emplacements: Type II (2 Forward, 1 Port, 1 Starboard, x4, B)
Penetration: 2/2/2/0/0
Torpedos: Type V (4 Forward (Total Loadout), x4, A)
Penetration: 7/7/7/7/7
Missiles: Hunter-IV (10 Forward, 10 Aft (Total Loadout), x20, A)
Deflector Shield: Class 2 (C)
Protection/Threshold: 4/2

All specifications are as per the Star Trek RPG.