[PvK]

Yep, it's a valid strategy, but one with trade-offs. It tends to cost more to do this, and it tends to reduce your fleet strength, but it can pay off if all goes well.

I would be careful though about placement and timing. If you find yourself thinking it's a great advantage to be "only losing shells", then I think your security is lacking, unless you are getting a great trade-off in terms of increased expansion.

PvK