Battle of Orion

The Battle of Orion was a massed engagement between the [United Empire of Earth (UEE)](https://robertsspaceindustries.com/galactapedia/article/VyvyKxy4v6-united-empire-of-earth) and the [Vanduul](https://robertsspaceindustries.com/galactapedia/article/VpGPp92gdO-vanduul) that began on 16 February 2712 SEY, when thousands of Vanduul accompanied by a [Kingship](https://robertsspaceindustries.com/galactapedia/article/V3qWn9Dlvm-vanduul-kingship) poured into [Orion](https://robertsspaceindustries.com/galactapedia/article/VlMpwMky6d-orion-system) from a previously unknown jump point to the system later coded VS-09 "[Vulture](https://robertsspaceindustries.com/galactapedia/article/01Lx6KLKO8-vulture-system)." The battle marked the first time UEE forces encountered a Kingship. On 18 February, the UEE was forced to cede the Orion system to the invading Vanduul forces. This was the first major defeat for the UEE since the temporary loss of the [Idris system](https://robertsspaceindustries.com/galactapedia/article/bZkrMGnLdM-idris-system) in 2542. It is considered by military historians to be a turning point in the ongoing conflict between the UEE and the Vanduul.