Shortly after the Sshel'ath entered space new research projects were started to experiment with the feasibility of stealth technologies. Although great strides were made in these sciences, the Sshel'ath were never able to build a completely stealth warship hull.

The Karaut is one of the first warships to be built from the ground up to incorporate stealth construction techniques, including an advanced emissions masking system and composite hull material. The Karaut Destroyers were built in small numbers and used primarily for covert missions into Novon space. Though not hidden in actual combat, Karaut Destroyers could move unseen through enemy systems if they avoided those patrol groups that could detect them. Such missions were invaluable to the Sshel'ath intelligence efforts and the design were considered a resounding success.

Despite the advantages of the Karaut Stealth Destroyer the Sshel'ath were not able to maintain a large number of them because of the high maintenance requirements of the class.