The Avenger's size is much closer to a Klingon Battlecruiser than a standard Starfleet Cruiser. The Avenger's aggressive silhouette and available firepower make it a formidable and intimidating presence in any battle. There is nothing subtle about this starship class. However, it does sacrifice a measure of hull strength for this extra maneuverability. The Avenger-class Battlecruiser's design aims to provide a durable warship that is more maneuverable than Starfleet's existing cruisers, and can carry a devastating amount of firepower. Despite adhering to Starfleet's traditional cruiser design pattern of a large saucer connected to an engineering hull, with two outboard warp nacelles, the combat focus of the Avenger is expressed in nearly every aspect.

As the name suggests, the Avenger shares many characteristics with Klingon Battlecruisers, having been designed for war and not exploration.

The Avenger is a Federation Battlecruiser, the first of its kind.