The Terran Sea frigate fleet is to receive a tactical update designed to improve the combat effectiveness of the frigate which forms the backbone of the combat fleet. Terran Sea Tactical Update 2107 (TSTU-07) is designed to fit around ship's normal maintenance routines and will take no more than 4-5 days as a ship receives a B Exam refit (which DDS warships typically receive 3 times a year).
TSTU-07 includes a roll-up of C spec software and some equipment to earlier models of the Terran Sea fleet (so C spec updates will be faster) but also will include modifications to the Z-cannon and other tactical systems as well as updated shields and cloaking device. The DDS say that TSTU-07 will improve the effectiveness of the Terran Sea by 10% (how this is worked out and what is actually means was not explained). Improvements will include faster response times in the tactical system, faster loading and firing of the missile launcher, faster charging and targeting of the Z-cannon and the shields will be designed to work better against Utrek weapons. Its also thought the Z-cannon will be more effective against planet surface targets though not as good as the forthcoming Z5g.
It has also been rumoured in the media (though not confirmed by the DDS) that the ships will also receive a new CIWS. The entire hull is made active with a charge and by using magnetic forces can produce an energy pulse from any point to intercept an incoming missile or small craft. This new CIWS has been developed by the Raegris and has been bought by the DDS for an undisclosed fee according to some reports.
Late last year it was reported the Terran Sea fleet would receive the Terran Sea Tactical Pod (TSTP) but due to the Zone and later Utrek attacks the programme was postponed and then cancelled. TSTU-07 includes much technology from the TSTP programme as well as other enhanements.
