The most important new HCS warship since the Soulaki, the Shark frigate, has entered testing. The oft-delayed frigate design has been around for a number of years (though for a long time described an an OPV) but delayed several times due to funding problems and HCS politics. The deteriorating state of the Kalahati Tuul fleet however forced the HCS' hand and they gave the full go-ahead to build the Shark last year.
The Shark is a simple design at first glance but has been designed to have modular armament which can be easily and quickly changed in port. Base line the Shark has 2 laser cannons and a missile launcher but can be also fitted with heavier cannons and extra missile launchers. Mine warfare and other options are said to be under development. The Shark can reach 600c which is fast for the HCS.
Technology wise the Shark is the most advanced HCS one yet. Its the first fully wireless HCS warship (although Soulaki, Cosmos S and late MTs have had wireless control it hasn't been on all systems and a physical wire backup was retained) and has what is called SCS (Ship Control System) though to be similar to DDS Open Architecture (though not as advanced). Some key systems have plug & play modules under SCS though the HCS are not pursuing the other features of OA like off-site telemetry monitoring, auto-reconfiguration and optimisation.
The first Shark is expected to enter service in the early summer.
Update : JDW is reporting that the HCS are working on off-site telemetry monitoring. Major hubs of the HCS Data Network are apparently receiving computer upgrades and a large new mainframe complex has been installed at Beyond Micom. It is thought the HCS will begin storing telemetry information from it's fleet by the start of 2109.
