Pirates

Pirates can be a important tool, or a major annoyance. You have the option to turn off pirate raids in your map, however keep in mind that pirate bases will still exist. They just won't send out raiding parties, nor will you be able to take out bounties.

Pirate bases are not easily taken, being almost impossible to do so early in the game. Bases usually are heavily defended by emplaced guns as well a large compliment of ships. If you really desire to take over a pirate base, this is best done later in the game when a large fleet can sweep aside ships and defenses with ease.

Note that if you destroy pirate base(s), you will no longer be able to place bounties or have bounties placed on you.

Pirates always use TEC ships and have a large amount of them from the beginning of the game.