In X4 Foundations, ships can be repaired using methods such as EVA repair lasers, service crews, repair drones, docking at stations, or fleet-based repairs, each suited for different situations and damage types. Utilizing these various repair options effectively helps maintain fleet strength and ensures ships are ready for action.
In X4 Foundations, ships can sustain damage in different ways, primarily affecting their shields and hulls. Small and medium ships typically only need to worry about these two types of damage, with shields automatically recharging over time. However, hull damage requires more active repair efforts, making it essential for maintaining ship integrity during combat or other stressful situations.
There are several methods to repair ships, each with its advantages and limitations. One of the cheapest options is to disembark using an EVA suit and use a repair laser. This method is cost-effective and the laser has unlimited energy and does not overheat, but it is relatively slow, making it suitable for minor repairs or when time is not critical. Assigning service crew to a damaged ship is another low-cost option, as they will gradually restore hull integrity up to a certain percentage, providing a steady repair process over time.
For capital ships, the damage can be more complex, affecting not only shields and hull but also individual modules such as engines, guns, turrets, and shield generators. Repairing these external components can be efficiently handled by deploying repair drones, which can quickly fix damaged modules. Meanwhile, service crews are responsible for internal repairs, ensuring that the ship’s core systems are restored alongside external damage.
The fastest and most thorough repair method involves docking at a maintenance facility, warf, or shipyard. Although this option can be costly, it provides a complete and rapid repair solution, restoring the ship to optimal condition. This method is ideal for critical repairs or when time is of the essence, especially after major battles or damage to key systems.
Fleet operations also offer repair capabilities, with carriers and auxiliary ships able to conduct repairs on other ships within their fleet. This allows for efficient maintenance of multiple ships without the need to dock at a station, keeping the fleet operational and ready for action. Understanding and utilizing these various repair options ensures that players can keep their ships and fleet in top condition, avoiding being caught unprepared in dangerous situations.