An upgraded Excelsior-class starship drawn into Admiral Leyton's attempted coup, fighting the Defiant near Earth in 2372.
The USS Lakota was an Excelsior-class starship refitted with upgraded weapons and systems by the 2370s. In 2372 it was commanded by Captain Erika Benteen, who served under Admiral James Leyton.
During the Changeling scare on Earth, Leyton plotted to seize control of the Federation under cover of martial law, and the Lakota was part of the forces loyal to him. When the Defiant headed back to Earth against orders, the Lakota was sent to intercept it and stop the evidence of the conspiracy from getting through.
The two ships fought a damaging battle near Earth that killed members of the Lakota's crew before the confrontation was ended. With the evidence of his scheme exposed, Leyton was forced to resign and the attempted coup collapsed.