The HCS Space Navy have cut back on their Cosmos S plans in order to save 3.5 billion zarks. The final 10 on order have been cancelled meaning that just 12 more will be produced. As well as that the 5 oldest Cosmos will be withdrawn from service when they come off the end of their current patrols. This will give an eventual fleet of 115 Cosmos though its possible 5 more will be withdrawn. There is no word yet on when the SR programme to upgrade older Cosmos will begin though some ships are coming to the end of their fatigue lives within the next few years.
An extra Tiamon assault carrier has been ordered, on top of the 2 already under construction meaning the HCS will eventually have a fleet of 7. All Tiamons will also receive upgrades to their aircraft control system.
The T-55ZDM trials are continuing well and it is expected full clearance to begin series production will be given early next month. 500 have been ordered for the initial block which will be split in a 3:2 ratio between the Western & Eastern HCS. The Dinos have provided an initial 12 million zarks development fund for an improved version of the Tapir IFV for the Dino Army. The Tapir TRV-5HD will have improved armour, a new gun and an uprated engine. The HCS are expected to procure a localised version for themselves.
The HCS Navy has been allocated 17 million zarks to form 5 Marine Support Regiments. These troops will protect naval bases and provide manpower for amphibious operations. One regiment will be a panzer regiment and be equipped with refurbished T-55Z4 tanks and Tapirs from HCS stocks.
16 AH-26s have been transferred from the HCSAF reserve and will be refurbished and modified to SH-26 standard to supplement the HCSN's helicopter fleet. The HCSN have opted out of the AH-26X programme for now because it's SH-26 has fairly low hours in average and has on the whole a good 10-15 years before replacement be seriously considered.
