The Mariner and Protector prototypes are currently competing in an evaluation test to see which type will be chosen to become NS' Light Patrol Ship to replace the legacy UNSP fleet. It is widely expected that the Protector, a version of the Pentekonter, will win as it is Sea Urchin's favoured option.
However Dr Forbidden has said that it is likely both types will enter series production. If Protector is chosen, he said, there will still be a need for a smaller fleet of Mariners as Protector is not suitable for all light patrol roles where the smaller Mariner would be a better fit. He thinks the eventual light patrol fleet will be 49 Protectors and 12 Mariners though Sea Urchin will be the one to decide.
