In a surprise move the DDS have begun the massive Quasar Intermediate Life Update (ILU) programme early. Class flagship 1201 Quasar was decommissioned and work begun on the update which entails a partial rebuilding, re-engining, new systems and weapons. The programme was not due to start until early 2107 but 1201 Quasar was found to have some fatigue cracks to the main load bearer that meant it was restricted to 400c. As the first ship to be completed Quasar was not built quite as robustly as later ships. The DDS thus decided to begin the ILU programme now instead of having a lame duck ship.
The ship is due to be completed early next year and then the full ILU programme will begin with 3 ships at a time updated. Dr Forbidden, the top DDS boffin, said that the Quasar ILU fleet would have 100% better combat effectiveness compared to the existing class. He also said improved reliability and availability would mean the reduced fleet of 12 Quasar ILUs would have nearly the same reach as the original class of 20.
