After the recent conflict between the Alliance and the Empire on Bespin, Imperial scientists have discovered a use for Bespin's rich source of Tibanna gas that could strike a devastating blow to the Alliance. Upon learning of this possibility, Princess Leia Organa sends a squadron of Rebel fighters to prevent the Imperials from taking control of Cloud City and its surrounding mines. Both forces secure a base of operations on nearby Tibanna mines, intent on securing control over Cloud City.