One of the few remaining space fleet missions of the UNP is maintaining communications and light transport to the many small colonies and mining bases across the UNP. These small colonies, often hidden away on small moons or asteroids, are served by an ageing fleet of Avery-Dunlop Starspeeder transporters. These ships are fast reaching retirement and the UNP are considering whether to replace them or transfer the duty to the DDS.
The UNP already contract out their heavy transport to the DDS (hence the large number of Providers operated) which brings in 2.7 billion zarks to the DDS a year. Transferring the communications role would be worth another 4.3 billion zarks but would require the DDS procuring a fleet of around 20 utility and medium-sized transports. The UNP would provide a one-off 1.2 billion zark start-up fund to the DDS if they took up the role from the sale of the transports and UNP shore facilities. Currently maintaining and operating the fleet costs the UNP 8.7 billion zarks so a considerable saving could be made. A decision is expected shortly.
