NS has been tasked by the UNP to extend the protection given to Hexian City on Proxima 7 and NS' two main bases which have regular air patrols by TPM-A carrying fighters able to attack threats in LEO. UNP have requested the next five largest cities across the UNP to also have these patrols.
Currently the patrols are carried out by the F-10ASE which is being replaced by the F-10SNG. Both types can only carry one TPM-A at a time (though the SNG can carry two at a cost of reduced range). NS has decided that a dedicated interceptor would be preferable and cheaper. An already available design has been purchased from Consolidated Aerospace and will be converted into the F-12. This will be a large subsonic aircraft able to carry two or three TPM-As and maintain patrols for extended periods. NS has ordered fifty F-12s, the prototype is being built right now and should fly before the end of the year. NS aim to begin patrols with the F-12 by 2122.
