Planetary Invasion Races/Mods

[Grand Deceiver]

I know there are hundreds of opinions on what is the best Mod or Race out there. I am going to list what I'm looking for and maybe some of the more experienced bubbas can give me a few suggestions.

First of all I am looking for a race that will use troops to invade planets instead of glassing them every time (I know some glassing will take place just to get thru the defenses). Maybe it is the Jarhead in me but I really love to drop Troops or defend against dropped Troops. Is there a race or modification that is suited to this?

Second..how do I get races to defend more than one or two systems at a time? If I can get enough aveneus of approach into an empire all I have to do is hold my own in the few they are defending and walk in the back door.

Is there a tool out yet for modding AI's?

Last but not least..I know there is a lot of thought on SEV..but I do hope that there will be a form of tactical ground combat in the new Versions (players choice of tactical or strategic ground combat). I have some very good but simple ideas on tactical ground combat. Would love to discuss them if anyone cares to.