Explanation

"First of all," Samji replied, "Captain Kheren has a point. The warp cores in our Starbase's shuttles would be a more viable option."

"As for the Commander's suggestion, we need something that will interact with subspace to cause the actual rift. A photon torpedo has no interaction with subspace. We'll need an actual warp field to form or be forming when the core explodes."

The disembodied voice of Lieutenant Commander Sangliar spoke up again from within the crowd of taller people surrounding him. "In that case, Sir, a warp core will not be good enough either."

Samji mentally kicked himself for missing the obvious. In the turmoil he had forgotten the warp theory 101 he had been taught at the Academy. "Of course, Mister Sangliar, you are correct. Without the nacelles, we of course will not have the necessary warp field just from a warp core."

He began to think of another solution, hoping at least someone in the conference hall could free him from the responsibility...