While they are capable of flight, as designed they were meant to remain largely stationary upon reaching a suitable vantage point. A power-saving measure, you understand. Incorporating a number of viewports allows for a greater ability to accommodate for both more mountainous terrain as well as greater insight on the field of battle, should they be called upon to serve in that capacity.

[A pause.]

The embellishments are... largely decorative. But could serve to identify which legion any given ship had been assigned to.