The Cardinal is a Hecate-Class Surveillance Highjacking and Infiltration Vessel (HC-SHIV). There are rumoured to be roughly a dozen of these with the Tellurium Industries fleet, although the company publically disavows any knowledge of these ships.

Per the reports, these vessels are designed to be as undetectable as possible, with several layers of security built into the hull to make them invisible to most detection technologies. Lighting is deliberately kept low, and no noise or music is permitted. It is also required that all on board only speak as necessary, communicating primarily by gesture. The ship's exterior holds several weapons and shielding systems purpose-designed to incapacitate small vessels.

Each ship is outfitted to have a crew of five, including all roles aboard. There is also room for two persons of interest in the right-hand cargo hold. Amenities are shared, and there is a fully operational medbay available for any injuries sustained on duty. The mess and galley serve MREs exclusively, although there is coffee available made fresh. Finally, there is a full weapons room with an ammunition case and two gunsmith stations. All materials required for modifying weapons are available.

The purpose of these ships is unknown, but the only known sighting of one was near the Tau Cluster, an area owned by Tellurium Industries' largest competitor. The ship's appearance is thought to be linked to several explosions that caused damage to the mining operation, causing it to shut down for several weeks. Investigations are, however, still ongoing.