Drifter crisis (2025)

1. Drifter crisis (2025)

The **Drifter crisis** of early 2025 marks a significant escalation in Drifter hostilities within New Eden, presenting capsuleers with new challenges and opportunities. This guide provides an overview of the Crisis sites, including the **Crisis Resolution Operation**, and offers insights on how capsuleers can effectively engage with this content.

1. 1. Overview

In January 2025, Drifter-controlled forces launched coordinated attacks across high-security and low-security systems in all four major empires. These offensives primarily targeted civilian infrastructure, prompting immediate military responses. The underlying motivations of the Drifters remain unclear, as the selected systems lack apparent strategic value, and there are no indications of resource extraction or permanent occupation. Central to their operations are structures known as **Vigilant Dreamers**, which appear to be focal points of Drifter activity in the affected systems. [^1]

1. 1. Crisis Sites

Capsuleers can engage in various **Crisis sites**, each designed for specific fleet compositions and ship classes. Successful completion of these sites weakens the Drifters' hold on the system and progresses towards unlocking the **Crisis Resolution Operation**. [^1]

1. 1. 1. Crisis: Field Rescue

- **Objective:** Salvage wreckage from an empire assault on a Drifter facility to locate and rescue survivors. - **Recommended Fleet:** At least 3 capsuleers. - **Permitted Ships:** T1 frigates and standard T1 destroyers. - **Notes:** Teamwork is essential to efficiently salvage and manage potential threats during the operation.

1. 1. 1. Crisis: Observatory Infiltration

- **Objective:** Retrieve valuable relics from the remains of an emergent Jovian Observatory. - **Recommended Fleet:** Up to 3 capsuleers. - **Permitted Ships:** T1 frigates, destroyers, and standard T1 cruisers. - **Notes:** Be cautious of traps left by the Drifters; scanning proficiency is crucial.

1. 1. 1. Crisis: Deathless Research Outpost

- **Objective:** A Deathless research base is under Drifter attack. Use remote repair modules to maintain the structure's integrity until it can be secured, or choose to destroy it and sell the recovered Hyperspace Telemetry data. - **Recommended Fleet:** 5 capsuleers for defense; fewer may suffice for destruction. - **Permitted Ships:** T1 frigates, destroyers, and standard T1 cruisers. - **Notes:** Logistics ships play a vital role in defense; coordination is key.

[^1]: [Drifter Crisis: Defend New Eden](https://www.eveonline.com/news/view/drifter-crisis-defend-new-eden)