How do you stack or join Groups of fighters?

[Raging Deadstar]

Atrocities said:
Fighters need to be retrieved by a carrier or planet. When relaunched they regroup.

Also, fighters are great in early games, but are easily countered in later games with Point Defense Cannons (PDC's) in the later parts of the game.

They are best served as planetary defense, along with Weapon Platforms.

I've always made sure i Keep a few carriers with my fleets. Some AI's like to use Weapons Platforms with Weapons that can't target fighters.