One of the biggest development programmes currently is the space fighter UCAV joint-project between the Dinos and DDS (with the Starbotians assisting). Dr Forbidden gave a media briefing earlier today where he confirmed the UCAV will be known as Ferret in DDS service. A space-mode UCAV will be produced first with air-mode added later (aerodynamics add a great deal of complexity to the project).
The Ferret will be subluminal, requiring carrier ships like the UCAV to transport it to a battle zone, but will have a very high thrust-to-mass ratio. Dr Forbidden said the Ferret would be highly nimble and agile and would literally be able to run rings around lumbering space ships. The Ferret would rely on speed for protection but would have a basic shield system to protect against lower grade weapons. The Ferret will be able to carry 2 TPMs and also will have a laser cannon. The Ferret will have A.I. mixed with base control for fighting, targeting data will be continuously sent from DDS ships. It will also have basic sensors for target analysis and navigation. The Ferret will decide itself the best plan of attack once it reaches terminal mode. The Ferret will also be able to feed back sensor information back to the mothership and other ships operating in the area.
Overall Dr Forbidden regarded the Ferret the future of space warfare and all warships would likely carry their own complement of Ferrets along with other weapons (he said for example the Panther would be able to carry a small force of 4 or 5) and said the first prototypes were due to begin testing by the end of the year though production grade Ferrets were some way off. He envisaged a fleet of over 500 of the types.
