Fighters are the first ship you will get your hands on in AE and also the most extensively used. They are affectionately referred to as Meatshields as they are used to help protect major fleets by soaking up fire from the enemy. Their low cost makes them perfect for swarm attacks, but they are unable to move on their own (requiring Hanger space aboard larger ships). Their low Power makes them all but useless against many shielded ships unless in extremely high numbers and/or with extremely high amounts of laser tech.How to counter: Heavy Cruisers and capital ships.