The HCSN Air Service (HCSNAS) has announced a major boost to its carrier airpower. The carrier capable version of the A-85NT COIN aircraft the NTK has been accepted into service and the first deliveries of production standard NTKs are expected within weeks. The HCSNAS hopes to form its first NTK squadron by mid-Autumn and begin fielding the type on its carrier by the end of the year. Currently the HCSNAS has been receiving land-based NTNs but production will switch entirely to the NTK leaving them with a fleet with a 40/35 split of NTN/Ks.
The tiny number of carrier capable F-40Ns has also been boosted following some refurbishments and the HCSNAS now claim they have 13 carrier capable F-40Ns though will continue to only field 4 at a time to save wear and tear by rotating the fleet. F-45Ks are due to enter service around 2115 and that probably cannot come fast enough for the navy. Deliveries of the first of 25 F-45As will begin later in the year which will allow the HCSNAS to withdraw some of its oldest F-40Ns used in the land-based role.
