Carriers attack through interceptors. During combat more interceptors must be built to replace casualties. Interceptors have the shields automatically recharged without cost upon returning to the carrier. Forcing interceptors to return at opportune moments may extend the life of the swarm.
Interceptors self-destruct if their parent carrier is destroyed. Interceptors automatically return to the parent carrier if the carrier is disabled (e.g. Lockdown), and resume attacking once the carrier is active again. Interceptors are selectable but no orders may be given.