The DDS have issued a requirement for a mine layer as part of their "Mine Warfare 2.0" strategy which also includes an increase in the Pentekonter-M force and next generation minesweeping equipment. Up until now however DDS mine warfare efforts have been in removing mines, now the DDS wish to lay some of their own to protect strategic points.
As a temporary measure the Raegris have offered the use of their Quasar cruiser fleet which has a mine laying capability though the DDS say they have no immediate plans to lay mines (or have any actually in stock). The DDS are looking at a number of options including a dedicated minelaying fleet or a mission module for an existing type. The Quasar has been ruled out already as a G3 design it lacks the modularity and is already being prepared for the strike bomber role so the DDS wish to keep them for that. The Panther is the most likely candidate as it would be able to carry a lot more mines than the Rome.
