With the Excelsior class remaining in active service for over 90 years, several improvements were made during the course of her service life. One variation of the refitted Excelsior class ships was the Lakota. With enhanced weapons and shielding, the Lakota, a nearly centure old design, was able to force a standoff with the far more advanced USS Defiant, a testimony to her rugged construction and enhanced capabilities. Class: Heavy Cruiser (CA)