Frigates are the smallest vessels rated for deep space military operations. They’re typically deployed for patrol, scouting, and commerce escort missions when heavier vessels aren’t available. When dragged into fleet actions, they’re usually used in small squadrons as screening units, or if unlucky, for flanking maneuvers.

Gunships replace the Attack Frigate’s torpedo system with a pair of lightweight railguns. Unlike Hex Fleet, Ellipse Fleet doesn’t consider gun armed frigates to be useful combat vessels. These ships mostly end up doing low priority missions and escort duties, or helping police forces chase pirates.