Ion Technology
Ion Technology strengthens fixed-defense shields. It does not improve ship shields.
Quick stats
| Effect at level 1 | Bonus |
|---|---|
| Defense shield strength | +15% |
The Ion bonus adds alongside the defense-shield bonus from Defense Technology. Ion Cannon construction requires Shipyard 4; researching Ion is not a prerequisite for the cannon.
Cost and access
Available from level 0 without a lab or research prerequisite. Level 1 costs 9 base RP; later levels grow exponentially before any other-domain tier surcharge. The Research screen shows the current quote and saved funding.
Purchase a completed level immediately with RP, or use automatic investment. Metal, crystal and deuterium are not research payments in 3.0. Physical Research Labs increase RP income, not purchase speed.
Each fifth level adds another initial amount before compounding the bonus itself by 1%. See tier progression.
When to invest
Invest when you already have defenses worth shielding. Mobile fleets instead benefit from Mobile Shield Technology. Use the simulator to compare a research purchase with more defenses.