First to the questions: I was having such devices as well, but only in a few systems. I was silly for thinking you would forget to use these obviously. I planned on attacking your rear lines with these ships, but you were ready unfortunately.
I see, I believe it is a nice idea and it is indeed working fine. (Heavy Mount doesn't help when you cannot it your target) And that gave me an idea. I should use such ships as well, once the research is done that is. (Don't laugh, but I still only have Scouts and Frigates)
My main concern is the number of fronts at the moment rather than the strength of your military. (I have a bit more than thirty ships, including former skirmishers, repair bases and likely an outdated ship or three. Could be enough against your fifty ships, but perhaps not) You don't even have to challenge my warships to win, destroying my main resource worlds would be more than enough. My only hope is that you forget to play for three years, only awaking to see my nice Warp Closers Online, but I have the feeling this is unlikely.
So, I believe I don't stand a chance unless you are indeed experiencing some big trouble meaning I am left alone for quite a few turns. Otherwise my outer systems will fall one after the other, your ships able to evade my slower and less numerous forces. So, in a few words, do you think we should carry on with the game? I am not sure how willing you are to go on the offensive in this game though, it could lengthen the game by a few turns if you were to wait before striking.
Incidentally, thanks for the compliment, I would like to play in a teamgame with you as well. Perhaps we could form an alliance against Geoschmo who is so eager to coerce both of us into surrendering? *Smirks*