In Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, what advanced torpedo type is carried by the USS Defiant?

In Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, the USS Defiant carries quantum torpedoes.

The Defiant is introduced as a heavily armed escort vessel designed to fight the Borg, and its weapons include quantum torpedoes as well as phasers and standard defensive systems. Quantum torpedoes are more powerful than conventional photon torpedoes and use an advanced fictional propulsion or energy principle associated with Starfleet’s late-24th-century weapons.

The Defiant’s compact size and unusually strong armament are important parts of its identity. Quantum torpedoes give the ship substantial offensive capability despite its small hull, making it effective in engagements against Dominion and Borg forces. The weapons are launched from dedicated torpedo systems rather than being a variation of the ship’s phaser banks.

Quantum torpedoes are often confused with transphasic torpedoes from Voyager’s future timeline. Quantum weapons are already available to late-24th-century Starfleet, while transphasic torpedoes are substantially more advanced and appear in “Endgame.”