What to research first when playing the AI?

[Urendi Maleldil]

Get to light cruiser quickly.

Research all colony techs as soon as you can (The AI usually waits to research those, so it gives you opportunity).

Try to get Phased - Polaron Beams quickly. They're the best direct fire weapon in the game on a tonnage-to-damage ratio.

Don't forget to pick up point defense along the way. Fighters are also the most efficient way to wipe out undefended systems.