Switch Alliances - Depending on a contract or other reasons, a mercenary can easily switch sides in a conflict.

Mercenary's Uplink - Most mercenaries carry uplinks to communicate on the mercenary network.

Knowledge of the Enemy - Mercenaries tend to have a broad understanding of conflicts, and can exploit the weaknesses of any side.

Honorless Retreat - If a mercenary does not feel strongly about a contract, he or she can escape a losing battle, abandoning allies but saving oneself.

Neutral Military Vessels - Mercenaries are known to keep their military starships even after they switch alliances. Therefore, it is accepted for them to fly an enemy faction's starships even in fleet battles.

Mercenary's Contract - Even mercenaries have some honor. They will not accept conflicting contracts, so their clients trust that a mercenary will not turn on them during battle.

Battle Hardened - A mercenary will experience many battles, and will generally be more capable than many other soldiers.

Unlikely Leader - Mercenaries tend to have first-hand knowledge of enemy customs and equipment. When behind enemy lines, sometimes a mercenary is trusted as a leader due to this experience that others may lack.