The Elite Dangerous Vanguards 2025 update introduces a complete overhaul of the squadron system, featuring customizable squadron identities, a revamped browser, resource-sharing via squadron banks, dedicated carriers, and new perks to enhance multiplayer and community engagement. Additionally, the update fixes various technical issues, improves quality-of-life features, and offers new visual customization options, marking a significant advancement in the game’s multiplayer experience.
In the latest Elite Dangerous update, titled Vanguards or Squadrons 2.0, Frontier Developments introduces a comprehensive overhaul of the squadron system, replacing the original Squadrons feature from 2018. The update, released on August 19, 2025, brings numerous new features aimed at enhancing multiplayer gameplay and community interaction. Players can now create unique squadron identities complete with custom logos, banners, and mottos, fostering a greater sense of belonging and personalization within the game.
One of the key additions is the revamped squadron browser, which allows players to discover and join various squadrons, track their members, and compete on an extended leaderboard to earn rewards. The update also introduces a squadron bank system, enabling resource sharing such as credits and ships among members. Managing a fleet becomes more immersive with the introduction of dedicated squadron carriers, which come with expanded storage for commodities and items. Players can also apply new squadron perks and monitor their influence across the Elite Dangerous galaxy through detailed reports.
Alongside these major features, Frontier has addressed several technical issues and bugs. Notably, they fixed problems related to the Panther Clipper and Gutamaya Corsair ships, including thrust vectoring issues, cockpit visual glitches, and decal display errors. Crash fixes were also implemented for scenarios like swapping ships on fleet carriers and using advanced maintenance. These improvements aim to enhance stability and polish, particularly focusing on the Panther Clipper models, which had multiple mesh and clipping issues.
The update also includes various quality-of-life enhancements such as clarifying the colonization facility rename feature, fixing HUD audio for multi-crew members, and resolving localization text errors. Frontier’s official Vanguards webpage provides additional insights, showcasing the new squadron carrier aesthetics and customization options. Players can now choose from different color schemes for their squadron carriers, adding further visual distinction and immersion.
Overall, the Vanguards update represents a significant step forward in Elite Dangerous’ multiplayer and squadron gameplay. While some players may prefer solo exploration, the new features encourage community building and strategic cooperation. With the promise of ongoing updates and new content like the upcoming Type 11 Prospector, the Elite Dangerous universe continues to evolve, offering fresh experiences and opportunities for players to engage with the game’s expansive galaxy.