Would you call this an exploit?

[timsup2nothin]

I build ships on freighter hulls early in the game. One weapon, a few sensors, and as many engines as it will hold.

They aren't any use for convincing the AI to respect me, but when the war starts they are devastating. Wipe out enemy freighters, unarmed bases, transports...

And they are virtually indestructible, since their sensors can spot a safe place to stop and they can hit and run.

I might have answered my own question...

[snoopy369]

It's the Millenium Falcon strategy

[Stuie]

I build AWACS like that - freighter hull with tons of sensors/engines. It's not an exploit, it's a strategy.