Alpha 4.8: Strike Groups

Alpha 4.8’s centerpiece: Tactical Strike Groups—the largest cooperative fleet operation yet. Face the Shattered Blade & Vanduul faction at a fortified extraction station in Nyx. Coordinate fighters, sub capitals, torpedo boats, capital ships, and ground forces for multi-stage rescue missions combining space warfare with FPS combat.

The Idris & Polaris can now repair, refuel, and rearm smaller vessels if carrying required materials on their cargo grid. The Drake Caterpillar & Ironclad command modules can now detach and operate separately.

Owners of refueling ships like the Starfarer gain access to NPC refueling missions — your first true career loop for pilots interested in refueling. Respond to distress calls from stranded ships and earn credits for emergency refueling services. Refueling Beacons also return.

Expanded combat arsenal with Scorch Area Denial Plasma grenades, advanced flight suits like the Virgil units, and tactical UltiFlex Novia Crossbow for stealth operations. Plus, components crafting enters the verse for the first time.

DefenseCon 2956 free-fly through May 27th. Test Drake Pitbull, Origin M80, MISC Starlite, Aegis Tiburon, Drake Ironclad before the comprehensive wipe. Upcoming: defend locations (4.8.1), Alien Week (4.8.2), XenoThreat returns (4.8.3).