The first K'mpec Heavy Cruiser began production in the last year of the Dominion War. Named after the late Klingon chancellor, the K'mpec had been in development for over a decade by the time the first space frame was laid down. The High Council wanted to eventually replace the Vor'Cha Attack Cruiser with this design, leaving the Negh'Var as a unique flagship for the Klingon navy. Production levels remain low, the Klingon Empire instead focusing on replacing their combat losses with tried and true warship hulls.

With a large increase in firepower, and a minor increase in its defensive capabilities, this ship is superior to the Vor'Cha in virtually every way. This ship however has a minimal amount of scientific facilities and support for missions like stellar cartography, following the usual Klingon preference of firepower on warships, and fitting out smaller frigates or birds of prey for exploratory or science missions.

The K'mpec Heavy Cruiser is considered Limited Availability 33% from 2376 - 2391. In battles set in 2392 onward the K'mpec is considered to be Unlimited Availability.