Fleet Task Group 85 (FTG-85) is an expeditionary formation of Starfleet vessels assigned to explore, chart, study, and catalogue The Verge. Similar in concept to naval carrier strike groups of the early 21st Century, although vastly different in purpose, FTG-85 falls under the command of Admiral Nolan Rutledge.

History

In 2381, four years after the return of the Silver Cormorant, Starfleet began the process of gathering a formation of ships to explore The Verge. Having spent some time studying the unstable wormhole, it was proposed that an anchor station on the other side could theoretically stabilize the wormhole enough to make travel through it predictable and safe. However, the anchor station would need to be relatively large in order to be capable of outputting the level of power required for stabilization, and so a task group would be needed to carry out the establishment, operation, and ongoing support of the facility.

That task group, designated Fleet Task Group 85, was formally assembled in late 2383 when Admiral Nolan Rutledge assumed command. Shortly after, they were deployed to The Verge, traveling through the wormhole and arriving largely intact (albeit missing one of their escort vessels, USS Beithir) in early 2384.

Upon arrival, FTG-85 assisted with Starbase Horizon's relocation to the L4 point around Sigma Ancylon AB and its initial startup before transitioning into their primary role as explorers of the region.

In addition to its mandate to explore, chart, study and catalogue the region, FTG-85 is also responsible for providing defense for Starbase Horizon, should the need ever arise.