These crew members were vital as they could help direct traffic where automated systems could not typically make decisions fast enough as the landing fields changed. Preferring the analog method of landing craft, technicians eyeballed distances without sensors using their illuminated traffic wands. Technicians also wore piloting gear, as seen on Kent Deezling, as they were authorized to commandeer certain vessels into proper landing position.
Jyn Erso (center) in the stolen Imperial ground crew armor of Kent Deezling.
Imperial ground crews were stationed on Mimban during the Mimban Campaign in 10 BBY, where they were also equipped with capes. Odeffro Msern served as a ground crew specialist on Mimban. In 1 BBY, Jyn Erso disguised herself in the Imperial ground crew armor of Kent Deezling to enter the research and development installation on Scarif during the Battle of Scarif.
Imperial ground crews first appeared in the 2016 film Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, and were later identified as Imperial deck technicians in Solo: A Star Wars Story The Official Guide, a reference book released in 2018.
- LEGO Star Wars Rogue One
- Star Wars: Rogue One: The Ultimate Visual Guide
- Star Wars Helmet Collection 56
- Star Wars Helmet Collection 56
- Solo: A Star Wars Story The Official Guide
- TIE Fighter Owners' Workshop Manual
- Ultimate Star Wars, New Edition
- Star Wars: Battles that Changed the Galaxy