NS need to replace its large inherited legacy fleet of light patrol craft by 2120 (or 2123 at the very latest). The Mariner 056A was the intended replacement and is due to begin testing in a few months however there are now signs NS has lost interest in the type. Director Sea Urchin is known to be a critic of the type which he thinks is too small and lacks development growth.
Sea Urchin is in favour of a low-end Pentekonter Protector which would be a more expensive (estimated at about 10%) but would be 40% larger and have greater growth potential. Its also claimed that the larger ships would be able to perform longer patrols and 50 could be built instead of the planned 70 Mariners.
Sea Urchin has taken a much more important role in NS since Torus' demise and many think he will be the next NS Commander, thus it is likely his preference will win through. An insider said the Mariner would be completed and carry out testing but then become a development and training ship in the early 2120s. The first of the Pentekonter derived ships (an unofficial source has termed them the Protector 058A) could enter service next year.
