How do I stop my ships from engagin system targets?

[Ghost Matter]

All my newly-built ships get killed instantly because of the Giant Kaltor in my system. I don't even have time to change the stance before they're already dead. I can't see any option to change the default stance.

[Henzington]

You should be able to turn off automation on newly built ships.

[Hawkeye_BF]

Yes first turn off the automation and secound there are two buttons (picture).
There you can switch between the options defend or attack (target, system, nearby systems, sector).





If you choose "defend" (for example your Homeworld ("target"))your ships do not engagin system targets.

[Bingeling]

You can set default engagement stances in:

Escape (menu) - Options - Empire settings.

I would prefer to keep them where they are, though, and solve your problem by good, old micro management The key is to keep them occupied with orders until they are gathered and ready to attack. "Move" orders work well for this.

[Ghost Matter]

In what sub-menu is this option, Bingeling? I can't find it.

[Bingeling]

Just where I wrote?

Summon the game menu (Escape works if outside game menus).
Open options.
Press the empire settings button which is there and not very hard to spot, even if the window may be a bit in the realm of information overflow.

[Ghost Matter]

Doh, I was looking at Empire Policy (what asking for which section inside that window). Thanks!