Frigates in Star Citizen are versatile medium-sized ships that provide a balanced combination of armament, defense, and payload. These ships can play a crucial role in fleet operations by fulfilling both offensive and defensive functions. With sufficient crew capacity and space for various tasks, frigates are capable of handling a wide range of missions, from escorts and patrols to offensive or defensive operations. Their flexibility makes them valuable assets in spaceflight as they can operate independently or as part of larger fleets.