i think it should stay seperate, as it adds a layer of depth to the game that makes it a little different from other browser games, just my opinion :p

seems that marines have already started to take down those ships

so why doesn't the battle report show the number of marines and drones battling. like when you're attacked and your drones suddenly disappeared so did the drones actually fight back??

Is there any other special stats for troops or ships?

Or can I estimate a troop/ship attack/defensive abilites purely from attack, hp, and counter numbers?

(Taken upgrades and defensive buildings into consideration of course.)

I mean do some troop/ship have stronger power against another type troop/ship beyond what attack/hp/counter would indicate?

I would have to say Marines can Board the ships (if ordered) and depending on how many board the ship determines what they do. If the Ships Defences/Attack is high and only a few marines are ordered the Ship could have a minor speed reduction of some sort or something. Marines could be able to attack Ships but it also determines on how many are attacking a ship. One little person shooting his laser rifle at this giant battle ship won't do anything. Yes Ships should fire upon (and heavily devistate) marines. BUT still it determines on the ship size/stats and the amount of marines. Persay 100 Marines board the weakest ship. They could kill it, but I say it should ask if you want to keep it or kill it. It could only allow you to keep it if you have enough housing. Good idea?