This mission is triggered later in the game if you payed the Corsairs on the first contact.

As the galactic ruler of your race you will lead your people into a procedurally-generated galaxy. In this eagerly anticipated sequel, the core mechanics have evolved to incorporate a turn-based strategic layer, featuring spectacular realtime battles. Regards, Captain Martok, Independent Trader and Gentleman You will have the option of paying them 250 credits for them to remain neutral, or you can choose to refuse in which they will turn hostile and will send a fleet to attack the nearest system to their asteroid base. StarDrive 2 is an exciting and evolutionary step forward for the StarDrive franchise. Oh, and either way, stay out of our space. If you don't, well, then we just can't make any promises.

If you do, then we can promise a certain level of 'protection' to your ships. Or rather, that you have allowed us to find you! Times are tough out here in the lonely black reaches of space, and when times get tough, well, the tough get to robbing honest space empires like your own. A Corsair base! The Corsairs have sent you this message: Dearest friends, We are so happy that you have found us. Military Ships Type I (Fighter) Type III (Corvette) Type V (Corvette) Type VII (Frigate) Type X (Cruiser) Type XIII (Carrier) Alpha (Titan), in-game as of v1. While patrolling the edges of space, your forces have stumbled upon a wretched hive of scum and villainy. This mission triggers by discovering the Corsairs asteroid base. Note: Pirates will not invade planets, they will only shoot down other ships. Corsair ships carry high damage beam weaponry and are heavily shielded.

Stardrive 2 ships