I really appreciate the guidance/help. So here is what is what I'm trying out for the "Fortress Europe" sector start:
"SMaffectModFactions":true, // I want mod factions to get a defense upgrade as well
"SMsizeForHeavyBatteries":4, // my own colonies by size 4ish have all their ground defenses fully upgraded
"SMaddMilitaryBase":2, "SMsizeForHighCommand":5, "SMsizeForMilitaryBase":3, // need more fleet defense
// this one I'm a little doubtful about since it gives Pirate/LP planets a station...which means if they share the sector with an enemy,
// that enemy will immediately go and deplete their patrols/fleets to destroy the station
// but why would Pirates and Luddic Path *not* upgrade their defenses if everyone else is also forting up?
"SMaddStations":2,
"SMsizeForStarFortress":4, "SMsizeForBattleStation":2, "SMsizeForOrbitalStation":1, // dog in the front yard. everywhere
// because of all these new fleets, stations, etc. I expect lots of free salvage floating around (player cheese! yum). I removed some cheese from my diet a bit with this setting I hope.
"useHullMod":true,