Also, any buildings that are on the planet's surface are reflected on the tactical map, and can produce upgrades at your command if you're willing to spend the credits. The defender always has the initial advantage, because both sides start with a population cap, and the defender typically starts with a larger one. Land battles are initiated when the fleet of one side is in orbit around an enemy planet, then descends onto the planet surface. Probably, the majority of your battles will take place on land in the beginning of any match. We'll ignore Skirmishes for now, as you'll need to learn the basics of the tactical battles if you wish to win in Galactic Conquest or Campaign modes.
In the single battles, also known as Skirmish Mode, the game becomes more like a typical RTS, with unit production on-site.
Most battles in Star Wars: Empire at War are called 'tactical battles' because there is never unit production and such during them.
