ER-72ACR Airborne Communications Relay enters service

The latest version of the R-72 Mustang reconnaissance/EW aircraft has entered service with the HCSAF. The ER-72ACR (Airborne Communications Relay) is intended to provide a survivable communication system for the HCS in the event of massive attack on ground based sites. One key role would be to maintain a communications link with strategic response assets such as the CSM if HCS GHQ and other major headquarters are destroyed from orbit.

120 will be bought of the ER-72ACR, 60 on Cloneworld and the rest spread throughout the empire. The ACR is basically a flying radio relay station but also with provision for a commanding officer to communicate with HCS assets. It is thought the HCSAF will maintain continuous patrols of ACRs when they have sufficient assets in place.