The GSS Black Eagle was purchased from CSA forces by the Griffon Alliance during their days of neutrality, in the year 5 ABY. It has almost always been dedicated to defence purposes, rarely seeing attack action. According to technical analysts, it is the second-most powerful warship the Griffons possess, only outclassed by the GSS Harbinger, which, for prestige reasons, conducts any and all offensive actions outside Griffon-controlled space. Thus, Black Eagle remained behind over Cochran for several years, "holding the fort" while the rest of the Griffon Military was off on campaigns.