The HCS have begun an upgrade to their Shark frigate fleet. The upgrades include improved sensors, including passive sensors (though the Clones are far behind the DDS on this), better shields and improvements to the computer system. Some of these improvements add compatibility with the SPECNES minesweeping system and integration of sensor data streams with SPECNES.
Testing has begun of a modified version of SPECNES, SPECNES-SH, on a Shark. The system fitting into the ship's gondola. The HCS are hopeful SPECNES-SH will be cleared for operation by early next year.
It is thought the HCS are planning a full roadmap of improvements to their Shark fleet which has quickly become very popular with the fleet. An improved engine is being developed for a later update. It is thought the Shark's frame is capable of 700-750c so more powerful engines may later take the ship up to those speeds.
