The HCS have surprised people by launching Build 19 of their next generation strategic missile, the Gale-III, just over a month after Build 18. Up until now there have been months between each test. Like Build 18, #19 was a test of the ICBM version of the Gale platform. It is thought the aerodynamics and IR suppression systems were further developed (which will play a part in the development of CSM). Build 19 took off from the test site in Micom and landed at the West Clone Republic test range.
It is thought the HCS are looking into yet another use for the Gale-III, that being to launch short-life emergency communications satellites. The rationale behind this being that if the HCS communications networks are destroyed then a hidden Gale-III could launch a low-orbit satellite with pre-programmed orders perhaps to launch CSM and other missile assets at pre-programmed targets. It is not thought Build 19 was part of this.
Build 20 will be the next CSM test and as this will reach space it could be this could also be used to develop the emergency satellite ability.
