The Shark frigate, the next generation replacement for the second-line ships in the HCS Fleet, has been delayed the HCS have announced. The ship was hoped to begin trials around now with an entry in service by the end of the year but this has now been put back due to problems with the powerplant and engine management systems. Entry into service is now being pencilled in for the end of Q1 2108.
The HCS are continuing to withdraw Kalahati Tuul Bs though as the ships have reached the end of their service life and it is not considered safe to continue operation. This means that some gaps in HCS coverage are now appearing, though in low priority areas, however the HCS hope to minimise the impact of the Shark delay. The Kalahati Tuul B is expected to be totally withdrawn by the end of this year. Withdrawals of Kalahati Tuul 2s will begin next year and the 2Ns will be transferred to the Remedians. Thus a mass production programme of the Shark must begin by Q1 2108.
The fleet of 20 Molentic Tuuls are to receive an update taking them close to GX standard. The update will improve sensors, weapons and computers. A HCS source said it was basically a GX without the new engine. The updates will begin next year and will be called Molentic Tuul A.
The programme to relocate the Zones to Colom is taking place with a massive operation using 90+% of the entire HCS spacelift force, the entire amphibious fleet and no fewer than 30 other warships for escorts. The HCS say their transport units are feeling the strain but are coping with the massive effort.
