Darths & Droids IV: Not in Numerical Order

[Dire_Flumph]

In the movie at least, when Finn and Poe take off from the rack, the fighter above them immediately starts lowering down into their slot, which is why another is there during the escape.

I've also heard multiple explanations for the wings, though solar panels are the current official explanation (although, let's be honest, at this point it's because it's an iconic look. Given how badly the FO are Empire fanbois they might not even serve a purpose), I've also heard sources of various official levels suggesting they were for heat dissipation instead.

The cable? Like a gas powered car, different TIE systems might be powered differently, it may also need a fully charged battery before launching. The cable may also have maintenance and diagnostic uses. It finally might just be the equivalent of a bike chain, let's face it, they seem pretty easy to steal without it.