PSXEMastering space combat is one of the crucial aspects to survive in the ever-expanding multiverse of Star Citizen. Whether you are a PvP enthusiast or just a simple space explorer who wishes to survive the hostile environment and fierce encounters, a good choice of fighter ships can work like a silver lining in the dark clouds. There is a dozen spacecraft available to choose from, but knowing exactly which ship to select is the main turning point in this game. Many pilots choose to boost their start with Star Citizen aUEC, the in-game currency that lets you acquire gear and ships faster.
If you are a person who doesn’t know which ship to choose, or are just a beginner, or want to develop, this guide gives the perfect illustration of the space crafts to select to achieve the highest point in the leaderboard. This guide systematically categorises the spaceships by combat, performance, role, and value in Star Citizen.
Aegis Gladius – The King of Light Fighters
- Role: Light Fighter
- Manufacturer: Aegis Dynamic
- Cost: ~1.1 million aUEC
- Hardpoints: 3x Size-3 weapons
The Aegis Gladius is the best choice for players who are looking for a fast, nimble, and well-armed fighter. Gladius balances both agility and firepower exceptionally well, hence it is favoured by both the PvP pilots and bounty hunters. In Star Citizen, Aegis Gladius is attractive due to its sleek design and tight manoeuvrability, which allows it to precisely dodge the asteroids and other spacecraft.
Gladius might not be the most durable ship among its class, but it is equally a very responsive flight model with a compact profile. Due to its agility and design, it’s very difficult to target and hit. Also, it’s one of the few ships in Star Citizen that sees regular updates due to its prominent role in Squadron 42.
Anvil Arrow – Speed Demon of the Stars
- Role: Interceptor/Light Fighter
- Manufacturer: Anvil Aerospace
- Cost: ~972,000 aUEC
- Hardpoints: 2x Size-3 guns, 1x turret, 4x missiles
This spacecraft in Star Citizen is built for those who value reflex and speed over everything else. It possesses one of the highest accelerations and high turning rates, which makes it a high-speed spacecraft that can beautifully dodge incoming fire due to its turning rate.
Even though the Arrow lacks armour and shield strength, experienced players can avoid the damage by using its agility. It’s a perfect choice for high-skill players since this ship requires quick decision-making.
Drake Buccaneer – High Damage in a Light Frame
- Role: Light Fighter
- Manufacturer: Drake Interplanetary
- Cost: ~1.2 million aUEC
- Hardpoints: 2x Size-2, 2x Size-3, 2x Size-1 weapons
This is a rough-around-the-edges fighter plane which has only one goal: to deliver the maximum damage to the rival ship. This spacecraft in Star Citizen might have light classification, but it showers more firepower on the rival team than any other spaceship.
However, the Buccaneer is not as agile as the Gladius or Arrow, and it lacks significant armour. This fighter plane is best for those players who prefer to end fights quickly rather than dodge fire.
Aegis Sabre – Stealth and Speed Combined
- Role: Medium Fighter
- Manufacturer: Aegis Dynamics
- Cost: ~2.5 million aUEC
- Hardpoints: 4x Size-3 weapons
Aegis Sabre in Star Citizen is the most sought-after plane due to its perfect balance between speed, firepower, and stealth. It is designed for medium-level engagements and covert operations. Though the Sabre has low radar visibility but at the same time has smooth flight model.
But if you are looking forward to obtaining ship ownership faster through combat, many pilots choose to buy Star Citize Ships. This helps the pilots to skip the grinding tasks and jump straight into combat.
Though Sabre has weak shields as compared to the other medium fighters, it excels in the hit-and-run tactic and ambushes.
Anvil Hornet F7C-M Super Hornet – Heavy Hitter in a Medium Frame
- Role: Medium Fighter
- Manufacturer: Anvil Aerospace
- Cost: ~2.1 million aUEC
- Hardpoints: 6x weapons (varied sizes)
This is a super flight with militarized features. It is packed with extra firepower and armour and is one of the most durable medium fighters available. It is useful for heavy fighters for its loadout capacity.
The Hornet contains a strong shield, dual seats, and ample weapons for the fight. It is ideal for players who are aggressive and combat lovers.
Aegis Vanguard Warden – The Heavy Fighter King
- Role: Heavy Fighter
- Manufacturer: Aegis Dynamics
- Cost: ~3.6 million aUEC
- Hardpoints: 1x Size-5, 4x Size-2, turret
The Vanguard Warden is built for survival and punishment alike. It’s a long-range heavy fighter with powerful frontal cannon and a supportive turret. It is a handful of those fighters who can tackle many enemies at the same time.
It also contains an interior space that has a bed, which makes it perfect for long missions. In Star Citizen, this fighter is a dominating force for heavy combat due to its sheer power and resilience.
Crusader Ares Inferno – Pure Firepower
- Role: Heavy Fighter
- Manufacturer: Crusader Industries
- Cost: ~3.4 million aUEC
- Hardpoints: 1x Size-7 ballistic Gatling gun
This fighter is destructive and all about raw damage. The Size-7 weapon it contains can shred any capital ship shield and armour. It isn’t agile; hence it is not perfect for dodge fighting, but on the other hand, it excels in anti-capital and anti-heavy roles.
Choosing the Right Fighter
Here’s a short breakdown of the fighters depending on your playstyle:
- Beginner Dogfighter: Aegis Gladius
- High-Skill PvP: Anvil Arrow
- High Damage Output: Drake Buccaneer
- Balanced PvP and Stealth: Aegis Sabre
- Tanky Medium Fighter: Super Hornet
- Solo Long Missions: Vanguard Warden
- Anti-Capital Combat: Ares Inferno
Conclusion
Choosing the correct fighter ship in Star Citizen can turn the tables in combat. Whether you are after firepower, speed, durability, or mere style, each category has a perfect go-to ship mentioned above. As the game upgrades and evolves, ship balances might shift. But these vessels are expected to remain top-tier throughout 2025.
Hence, choose wisely and pick a fighter that matches your personality and gaming style, and march into combat to eventually win with glory.