[DS and SG] Tech dispersal to the frontier

While colonies are unlikely to ever have the real cutting-edge,
first-line gear, I don't see frontier communities using any present day
style equipment.  I think that most military technology being used by
indigent forces will be considerably more advanced than even the best of
today's gear in several very important ways, and most of it will
probably be purpose-built by Earth or other Core World industries for
export.

Far more than initial cost, colonies are going to be concerned with what
kind of maintenance and support base a weapon system requires. ANY
system that requires expensive (probably off-world) spare-parts or
technicians on a regular basis is likely to be ignored.  This would put
most of the current U.S. arsenal out of the running immediately.

However, the current trend is toward tougher, easier to maintain
electronics systems, so even if colonies do end up using obsolete
equipment, it won't be today's obsolete equipment (with the possible
exception of small arms).

I see inner system corporations producing high-cost, low maintenance,
extended life-span systems for export to colony worlds, perhaps
providing a range of packages that are tailored to the level of local
tech and industrial support that is available.