A missed opportunity. I know the other factions economies don’t run on trade, but they could have vulnerable salvage ships that need to go clean up after combat and such instead. Have always wanted supply lines as well. Be nice for offensives to drain your economy and have to stock and victualise ships for long campaigns. Enabling them to go longer without supply ships or having to return to base.
I know, I know. Supply mechanics are not fun because players get upset when they do not have unlimited missiles and food not to mention crew.
But I won’t beat a dead horse 