Science Ship.

O'Conner listened to the captains talk with a raised eyebrow before replying. "Sir, I would have to disagree even with the Lotus's tactical upgrades it is still a science ship at it's core. Should the romulans show up and began to enact a plan to destroy the gateway, having the Lotus would give us the best chance to defeat any plan the romulans might come up with."

He then looked toward Captain Summers. "If we insist sending a ship to Horizon Children, the Specter is the clear choice. Not only is it led by an experienced half betazoid captain but should contact turn hostile she can handle herself in a fight and get away clean, with her DYCEP systems."