When not in combat:
-*Frequently check the in sector ship list (the "u" key). This is an invaluable tool for knowing who is in the sector, how far away they are, and whether or not they are hostile. You can often plan your target order and tactics or make the decision not to engage at all before your enemy is within radar range.
-*Don't go AFK in space unless you're in an empty sector. And by empty I don't just mean a sector with no one in it. I mean a sector that's out of the way, in the middle of space. No wormholes, no stations, no nothing.
When in combat:
-*Get used to glancing at your radar. If you see red dots closing in, chances are you might want to disengage and re-evaluate the situation before engaging again. If you see many small yellow dots (rockets), you'd best get out of the way before you explode.
-*Pay attention to sounds. Often times you can hear a ship that is close to you. That engine noise can be a sign that someone is trying to line up a shot. Also, should you hear incoming fire that doesn't appear to be coming from your target, check your radar to see who is closest to you. If it's apparent that the fire is coming from your wingman, you may continue as normal. If it's not clear who the fire is coming from, assume that it's an enemy and adjust for it.
{{SKV|info=Another tactic that I like is to set your incoming ship notification sound to just outside of energy weapons range. I find 650m gives me enough warning to figure out if the incoming ship is friend or foe.}}
-*The eyes have it. The best way to keep track of the situation is to keep it in front of you. When fighting multiple opponents, if possible try to keep them in view. This applies doubly if you're flying a vulture or any other ship with a large profile. Though sometimes, with smaller ships such as a centurion, you can get away with (and often it is better) to let the enemy surround you and rely on your agility to keep you alive. Though I can't stress enough, if you take your eyes off of a target carrying rockets, you deserve what's coming to you.
-*Coordinate with your wingmen. Be aware of who is doing what and where at all times. If there's more than one of you on a target, try to adjust your flying to make sure that both of you have clear shots. It is very annoying to have a friendly pilot unintentionally intercept shots that were meant for an enemy.
{{SKV|info=When piloting a ship with a slim profile such as a vulture, be aware of which of your sides are facing your enemy. If you have someone firing at you from the rear, use the horizontal and vertical lines on your radar to make sure your slim edge is facing them. This will make you a much more difficult target.}}