The K72 Mustang is one of the key types in the Clone Air Force, for several decades it has been the backbone of their tactical reconnaissance, EW and Elint capabilities. However the baseline Mustang has not been updated for over 10 years now but that has now changed.
A new "M" production model has been cleared for service and will be the basis of new build as well as the rebuilds of around 200 older aircraft, these will be reconnaissance and EW aircraft and will be known as the K72TRM and K72EM respectively, new build will also have these designations. New build Airborne Communication Relays will be known as the K72ACRM.
Changes include improved engines with around 9% more thrust and a 3% reduction in fuel burn. Aerodynamic improvements will also help increase efficiency and it is expected the new planes will be able to operate for an extra 30 minutes over the old model on the same fuel load. IR emissions are also reduced thanks to the new engine nozzles. The avionics are also receiving some updates.
