Clones reveal details of Halogen replacement, Z35 Courier

The Clone Defence Forces have finally revealed details of it's long delayed Z26 Halogen replacement, the Future Universal Helicopter (FUHX). The Z26 is a Clone War icon which has been built in the thousands, but it's replacement will be quite different.

The Z35 Courier is intended to replace the Halogen in the transport, multi-mission and reconnaissance roles. The attack role is already being taken by the Z50 Dragonfly. The Z35 is a simpler aircraft compared to the Z26, it does not have turbofans to augment performance (which has proven to be only useful in the attack role). The Z35 will have twin contra-rotating rotors instead of the ducted fan used in most Clone helicopter designs. Compared to the Z26, the Z35 will have 30% greater cargo capacity and a longer range.

The Clones say they plan to fly the prototype by 2130 with an entry into service by 2133.

Dino Space Missile declared operational

The Dino interstellar strategic missile, the Dino Space Missile or DSM, has been declared operational. Six mobile launchers are now active, as part of the 1st SS Strategic Attack Regiment, part of SS Strategic Weapons. MBH placing Dino strategic weapons under SS control is still controversial, the Dino Army has managed to gain access to the weapons following a review.

When the regiment is fully operational it will consist of twenty four mobile launchers and six more in reserve. DSM will not be nuclear armed by default, however nuclear warheads are being built and will be stored at a secure location. They can be fitted to DSMs fairly quickly if needed.

Clones unveil latest tank, T-55Z8

The Clone Army has unveiled the latest version of it's T-55Z tank, which is likely to become the sole tank in service after the army downsizes following the withdrawal from CSE-E. The T-55Z8 is the first new version for some time that is not based on a Dino funded upgrade, the last version being the T-55Z7 which was based on the Dino ZDM.

The T-55Z8 has improved sensors and a reduced infrared heat signature. It also has a laser point defence system for combatting drones. Other changes include an LED searchlight, better encrypted datalinking and compatibility with a new missile (identity currently secret).

The first T-55Z8s are expected to enter service early next year.

Molab accused of cyber attack on Cloneworld

Major systems on Cloneworld, including the central bank's mainframe, have been hit by a powerful cyberattack. The attack has caused chaos across the planet which has saw Admiral Anderson call a heightened status of alert for local Clone Defence Forces on the planet.

Later, Anderson accused Molab as being behind the attack though did not provide any evidence. Molab have not commented. A UNDF source said it was unlikely, internal dissidents are thought to be more likely.

UNDF increase alert status

UNDF has increased it's alert status to AMBER which means that, while no imminent attack is thought likely, UNDF will increase it's readiness and surveilance.

It has not been stated why the alert status was increased, a decision by UNDF Commander Torus, but it is likely due to the mysterious military build-up by the Clones in their Taragargi sector.

UNDF investigating mysterious build-ups in Taragargi sector

UNDF are looking into reports that the Clone Defence Forces have begun build-ups in the Taragargi sector of the Clone Star Empire. Orbital facilities at Taragargi and Geulis are being upgraded with more ships allocated to both planets. A military hospital on Geulis has also been reactivated. There are unconfirmed reports that work has begun on several new military bases on Taragargi, Geulis and Teriatri 7.

Several military ordinance factories on Colom are also reported to have been ordered to increase production. Several ships in the fleet have also had their major overhauls delayed.

UNDF are concerned that the Clones may be planning a new military adventure. Forces based at Taragargi would be well placed to launch an attack on UNDF South.