It will never happen if we approach it saying it will never happen. The inconsistencies and skill levels spoke of exist right now... just the inspections would have to change.
These IR tanks work right now... the 1/24 and 1/72 use no apples that I know of.
It would work if the present use needs to be changed and cost & availability look like part of the issue. The apple is already being allowed to be modified in certain games already so why not have a few mules to prove they don't work.
It's all conjecture anyway... the apple should be available separately for sale if all the other components are already.
Jeff