My current system is to build as many arcs as possible every turn, which is still usually only 1, only my first planet can build them. I then build 2 bulk freighters at every planet, so all planets have a small trade force. Other then that I've built a small fleet of 1 battleship 5 cruisers 4 destroyers 3 frigates and 80 subspacers. The only small players near me are quite a ways away so I'm desperately sending out fleets to try and get to them before anyone else.
Looks like I'm about to get peace with the number 1 player which is nice since I've been losing colony ships to him.
