Starfleet was always tasked with patrolling the ever-increasing borders of Federation space. By the 2360's, the need for a new dedicated starship class to carry out this task gained support in Starfleet Command. The Saber class was thus developed, with the intention of not only patrolling and responding to any border emergency, but also to perform basic scientific tasks that could be needed in their patrol areas.
Given its planned use all over the Federation, its construction was to be straightforward enough that any Fleet Yards could produce it. After the initial batch was commissioned and started patrolling areas of heavy pirate activity, Saber cemented its place on the fleet as a small yet dependable escort. While not as capable as the more compact Defiant class, its more traditional construction and larger size meant it was more popular with both crews and construction yards personnel.