The HCS Air Force, for so long the brunt of HCS funding cuts has finally received a boost in it's budget as the Clone economy enjoys it's first positive growth for a decade. The military budget was increased overall by 2.5% this year (compared to a cut of 35% over the last 7 years) and the HCSAF has benefited the most as it's share of the money was also increased as major space and land projects paid off. The HCSAF budget for 2105-2106 is up 21% in real terms over last year. The HCSAF have quickly decided how they are going to spend the money!
Production of the F-45 Falcon multirole fighter is to be extended from 1100 to 1500 with the new build being of the F-45B model with enhanced avionics and powerplant. 600 of the latest version of the mainstay attack aircraft the A-84F Interdictor are also to be built. The F has a new wing, ECM suite and survivability design improvements. The HCSAF also announced the start of the F-46 project for an air superiority fighter to replace the inadequate F-42 Forthright. The F-46 will be based on the F-45 and could enter service by 2110.
The COIN fleet will also receive an investment, 750 A-85 Brownings will be upgraded to the noctural operations NA-85Q Nighthawk model which includes engine quieting and night-attack equipment. Most of the HCSAF's airlift fleet will receive upgrades to their ECM self-protection.
Construction of 7 new airbases on Cloneworld, 3 on Randalf 74 and 1 on Aquaworld was also agreed, these will replace existing older bases. The HCSAF will also begin upgrading their shortrange radar network on Cloneworld.
