The first of 2 Benito Clone class helicopter carriers for the Austini 55 Flotilla of the HCS Navy has begun sea trials ahead of an expected entry into service next year. This carrier is similar to the Cloneworld class carrier though is a little smaller and does not have fixed wing aircraft equipment.
It is expected the Benito Clone carriers will operate around 12-15 SH-26 helicopters to support ASW and amphibious operations. The second carrier is likely to enter service around 2114 and be joined by the Austini 55 class singleton fixed wing carrier the year after. When the Benito Clone carrier completes its trials on Cloneworld it will be transported whole by the new Megalift TYZ super transport to Austini 55 for final trials and commissioning.
In other carrier news the HCSN have put back the entry into service date of its next generation carrier until 2119 at the earliest.
