[DeadZone]

Here is an option I would like

The ability to have no warp points at all

And you traveled from system to system using using Jump Gates (which need to be built and can only be built in systems owned by you and/or allies)
Or FTL engines, which take X turns to go from system A to system B depending on engine speed

I say this because atm all you need to do is have a better defense on your border warp points than those wishing to attack

With the above, it would empazize the need for border patrols, having to think about your defenses more, and many other things

Plus, there is more danger of a sneak attack, a cloaked armada has sneaked past your border and arrives at your doorstep knocking with huge guns
Now that would be a rush

Oh and the ability to not see automated moves (gets dull when you have a fleet of X hundred ships on the move and you are watching for god knows how long)

Last thing
Give the option for combat to be in real-time, cos it is also dull watching your gunboat fire off like 20 weapons 1 at a time
Of course include the option for it to be turn-based as I know some people do prefer that.