Following news of a sensor update to the Velocity destroyer fleet the DDS have said this will be part of a general update to the platform Velocity 2107 Update A (V2107UA). This is great news to fans of the destroyer as there have been concerns the type is being neglected by the DDS and getting left behind. Updates include a new sensor array with much improved passive modes, a new tactical multiplex with greater bandwidth, improved ship wide communications and general software updates to around 37 systems. Updates should begin in September.
The Marconi EW fleet will be modified next year for the Elint/Sigint role. The DDS are looking at beefing up their intelligence gathering capabilities and a key start will be to turn the Marconis into data gathering stations. It is also being mooted that the Marconis receive modifications to their docking bays to operate more SROPS and other small craft in the special forces / tactical recce roles.
Production of the Heron SROPS craft has switched to a Revision A model. The new model has 2 pylons for carrying a range of munitions including TPMs. A datalink has also been fitted for targeting (SROPS does not carry it's own sensor suite and tactical systems) using data from the mothership. Internal layout has also been modified after crew feedback and a potential problem with the airlock has been rectified. Existing SROPS will have the airlock modification but not the other changes.
The DDS have also issued a consultation document for a forthcoming superluminal capable version of the SROPS. The "Fly" class is likely to be a slightly larger (8 crew is expected) and capable of around 200c though most operation will be at slower-than-light speeds.
