I had an idea for a FPA group, the Anarchic Trade Alliance, that uses re-purposed civilian tech and mercenaries.  They would rufuse to "conquer" other systems, sending military into enemy territory only if it's primarily defensive.  Two groups would be a bit difficult to handle, though.  I may switch sides, making at different race for it, or, if you will allow it, I'll run one or two minor groups that aren't full sized allies (get half battle points or, in the case of the ATA only joins in strikes on enemy military targets and defensive battles.)