Interceptor

In common usage, an interceptor is a fast fightercraft designed to intercept enemy aircraft before they come close enough to friendly surface assets to become a threat.

Interceptors in Star Wars

There are two starfighter designs described as interceptors in Star Wars, the Imperial TIE Interceptor and the Rebel A-wing.

An interceptor turret on the Babylon 5 station

Interceptors in Babylon 5

In Babylon 5, an interceptor is a defensive weapon, not a starfighter. Widely used by the Earth Alliance, an interceptor is a rapid-fire pulse weapon that can disrupt incoming weapon pulses, destroy fighters, destroy missiles, or reduce the impact of beam weapons.