my opinion only, another idea, in beginning of game, research mines and ftrs. put mines and ftrs on your entry points and over your planets, this frees you up in beginning where escorts should be strong enough for awhile, then, instead of going for frigates right away, frees up research into the higher levels of weapons both seekers and beam type. mines and ftrs cheaper and are produced faster and can play havoc with enemy fleets in begining of the game make for a good defense. then when you get better weapons,then you started with, go into the ship construction.
but continue to colonize with building mines over new planets before you start facilities to give you a defense, but remember this will change as the game goes on and you'll have to change defensive strategy. wp's in beginning also good for defense. different strokes for different folks,
enjoy the game
just some ideas mac