Temporal Anomalies

[Baron Munchausen]

This is what forward bases are for. Get a planet close to your enemy equipped with a space yard, build orbital space yards. Build fleets closer to the combat.

[Suicide Junkie]

Or, retrofit up to the latest equipment just before you attack.

Of course, you also have to be wary of counterattacks catching you with your pants down and your weapons not yet installed...
Don't retrofit ALL the ships at the same time

[Raapys]

I've always thought colony, population and technology development goes way too fast in this type of games. I'm not sure how I'd rather have it, though.

[Caduceus]

No, no by all means, retrofit ALL of your ships at the same time.