The Cylon Raider is the basic Strike Interceptor of the Cylon fleet. It's sleek design means it can speed past nearly all enemy ships and hunt down slower ships as well as dodge bullets in firefights. The Raider's purpose is anti-strike, anti-missile and, in some cases, anti-escort. In small groups, Raiders can take down some Line Ships or do massive damage whilst others hold its attention with a bit of luck and skilled pilots. With 4 engine slots  the Raider can become even faster, catching up to slower targets with ease, never allowing an enemy to escape. The Raider also comes with high avoidance so lines are extremely ineffective against it. Think carefully before taking one a line your own though, as its high health and damage means you're mincemeat if it has missiles or accuracy-enhancing rounds, unless you're a skilled pilot and are able to shoot them down. If you have not advanced your Raider yet, it is  almost compulsory to travel in a squadron, as if you do not and you meet an enemy player, you'll be gone in a matter of seconds. It sometimes looks scary, but it can be easily destroyed.

Do not use an un-advanced Raider for P v P battles, as it only has 3 weapons. If you really want to, choose an enemy player who's level is lower than your own.

The Raider is the mandatory starter ship for Cylons ( you used to be able to choose it or the Cylon Heavy Raider).