[DirectorTsaarx]

I also like the idea of tugs (in fact, I think I mentioned it on the "SE5 wish list" thread). Anyway, the other use for tugs is adding "pallets" to the tug (I got this idea from SFB, of course). The basic idea is that the tug can tow various "pallets", each with it's own characteristics. One type of pallet is basically part of a spacestation/battlestation/starbase, another could be a "carrier" (i.e., fighter bay) pallet, another a "combat" pallet, etc. That way, you could build & store pallets, and then bring a tug in to pick up the pallet and go off to the front lines as an auxiliary carrier, attack vessel, etc. (or, as others have pointed out, put a starbase together on the front lines). I'd recommend multiple levels of tugs, just like the multiple levels of transports.