With the creation of the elite Praetorian Squadron, the Fleet Commander commissioned the research and development of a custom fighter to suit its more unorthodox role. Imperial Navy craft engineers of Shadow Works, working under a secret contract with the Supreme Director of Imperial Intelligence, began work on a new high stealth/space superiority fighter, now named the TIE Praetor. Starting with a slightly modified TIE Avenger chassis (selected for its compact size and superior maneuverability), engineers equipped the fighter with the latest in advanced Imperial technology and weapons systems. The end result was a space superiority fighter uniquely suited to its role in clandestine operations, while at the same time providing its operator sophisticated systems to enable him to identify, engage, and defeat his foe in space and atmospheric combat conditions. While largely implementing existing technology developed for other advanced fighter craft, the necessary miniaturization of these systems and the high-output power plant resulted in a per-fighter cost nearly ten times that of other advanced craft.

While the specifics of its operational systems remain classified, it is publicly known that the TIE Praetor is armed with two chin-mounted laser cannons in addition to the standard two laser cannons in the lower wingtips and ion cannons in the top wingtips. The Praetor's hyperdrive and nav computer are significantly modified, allowing the craft to operate at extreme distances from supporting starships without any support.

The TIE Praetor was notably equipped with a low-observability skin capable of impairing both sensor and visual-based observation. The red cockpit illumination, intended to deter potential adversaries during higher-visibility escort missions, was deactivated while conducting clandestine operations.

TIE Corps pilots lucky enough to see the legendary Praetorian Squadron in action say that the TIE is blindingly fast, and the few New Republic pilots that have escaped death at the hands of Praetorian Squadron report being haunted for months by the eerie red glow emitted from the TIE Praetor's special interior lighting.