A new version of the evergreen Tapir IFV has entered production and signifies a shift in development focus. It is now many years since the last major ground battle the HCS was involved in but there are over 17 separate insurgencies across the Clone Star Empire yet AFV development has not reflected this. Until now that is, the new version of the Tapir is the TRV-5GAIP (Anti-Insurgency Protection) and will be the production version until the co-funded with the Dinos TRV-5HD comes online sometime in 2110.
TRV-5GAIP has increased protection against IEDs as well as improved infra-red detection equipment for bomb triggers and lines. A new EW pack has also been fitted to give warning of weapon lock. A new active IR cancellation system is also being trialled and if successful will become standard on all new and refitted AFVs. The AIR system attempts to reduce the AFV's IR signature with active cancellation using IR emitters and waveform analysers. TRV-5GAIP has now entered production and the first should be reaching units by the end of the year.
The HCSN has begun an upgrade programme of it's SA-N-6 close range SAMs which are fitted to all of it's first generation ships (newer ships have the SA-N-6A). The SA-N-6ECA (Enhanced Combat Ability) retrofits the same seeker and datalink from the 6A.
Another HCSN missile, the SS-NS-3 cruise missile for submarine use, has been cleared for service though the only HCSN submarine SS Tinfish will need modification before it can be fielded. This will occur next year when Tinfish receives a refit.
The 12 aircraft in the 1st batch of the E-1 AEW fleet are to receive a systems update to bring them up to the standard of the later aircraft. The HCSAF are also looking to reopen the production line as only 34 remain in service which is insufficient for the empire's needs. All E-1s will receive modifications for interoperability with the forthcoming fleet of ER-72ACR Airborne Communications Relays as well as a new ECM management system.
