Bounty Hunter bases are scary and armed to the teeth.
There are no reported cases of anyone ever taking one down.
Despite the overzealously armed exterior, they have an open door policy and let just about anyone dock.
They host a popular series of lethal arena combat events, where ships compete for respect, as well as fortune.
Competing in the Arena is the best way to gain the Bounty Hunters respect.
Higher level systems will have more insane Arena ladders available.
If you manage to beat a particular Arena ladder, you will receive a special reward.
All Arena events provide you with a specific ship, with a specific tech level and load out.
Research levels and unlocks have no effect on arena combat events.