Hundreds of fighters accelerating at extreme rates create energy signatures that neither side can plausibly hide. Reconnaissance probes spread through the system and relay enough information for both forces to see the broad shape of the other's maneuver. The tactical problem therefore becomes one of intercept geometry, range, timing, and anticipating the enemy's response rather than surprising an opponent with an invisible fleet. This visibility follows from the setting's propulsion and sensor rules, and the commanders still have meaningful choices despite knowing where the major formations are. The Commonwealth has more fighters, but experience favors the opposing seventh-generation craft over its sixth-generation machines. That apparent disadvantage makes the fighter commander wonder what he is missing.
Notable Point · 2:07:14-2:09:40
Space fleets may maneuver in plain sight
High-energy drives and distributed probes make fleet movement obvious, shifting the contest from concealment toward geometry and timing.