Yet another solution to the Fighter Problem

What about discarding PDS, ADAF completely and restructure
anti-fighter/anti-missile defense as a targeting problem, not a weaponry
problem.

So there would now be the NEW Area Defense Fire Controls (mass 1 with no
additional mass cost for additional units, point cost x per unit) that
can direct any ships weaponry against up to 6 (maybe 3?) individual
targets at once (usually one group of fighters or missiles, but allowed
to mix and match).  Multiple ADFC allow increased numbers of targets (6
(or 3) per ADFC).  Ship's beam weapons, torpedoes, heavy missiles, only
hit on a 6, regardless of class.  SM's may be fired in point defense
mode (6" or less) and each pack of 6 will destroy 1-6 incoming
missiles/fighters. 

ADFC's are not limited to only targets attacking the ship, but may be
used on any "fighter or smaller( <=1 mass) craft" within range. However,
if used against craft not targeting the ship, only weapons in arc may
fire.  Otherwise any available weapon may be used to firea at craft
targeting the ship, regardless of arc.

Range is limited to 6" regardless of actual weapon capability.

In this way, ships do not have to commit a large portion of their
firepower potential to anti-fighter defense.  Your weapons are good
against ships and to a lesser extent fighters and missiles regardless of
your weapon mix.

More stuff for the FT Soup of the Day,

--Binhan