Ready to join the ranks of the United Colonies Vanguard and defend the Settled Systems from menacing threats? Of course, you are! The UC Vanguard is a volunteer civilian fleet, a force for good in the galaxy, and their questline is one of the most engaging and rewarding in all of Starfield. Not only will you get to participate in epic battles, but you'll also uncover a deep and dark conspiracy, all while earning valuable rewards and even gaining UC citizenship.
This isn't just a simple sign-up; it's a journey. So, let's get you enlisted and on your way to becoming a decorated member of the Vanguard.
Step 1: Locate the Recruitment Office
First things first, you need to find the right person to talk to. Your journey begins in the bustling metropolis of New Atlantis, located on the planet Jemison in the Alpha Centauri system. This is the heart of the United Colonies, and where the Vanguard's main headquarters are located.
Where to go: Head to the MAST District in New Atlantis. The easiest way to get there is by using the NAT tram system. Once you're in the MAST District, you'll see a massive, imposing building. This is the MAST building, and it serves as the United Colonies' military and political hub.
Who to talk to: As you enter the MAST building, look for Commander John Tuala. He's usually stationed behind a desk in the main lobby, on the left side as you walk in. He's a prominent figure and hard to miss. Go on, introduce yourself! He'll give you the sales pitch and explain what the Vanguard is all about.
Step 2: Sign the Enlistment Agreement
So, you've spoken to Commander Tuala and you're ready to commit. He'll give you the "Supra Et Ultra" mission, which is the first step in your application process.
Take the Elevator: To continue, take the elevator located in the lobby down to the Vanguard Orientation Hall.
Register at the Terminal: As you exit the elevator, you'll see a registration terminal. Interact with it to read the Enlistment Agreement. Read it carefully! You'll need to agree to the terms to proceed. It's a formal process, after all.
Explore the Orientation Hall: While you're here, take a moment to explore the Orientation Hall. There are several interactive displays that provide a fascinating history of the United Colonies and the Vanguard. This is an optional but highly recommended step, as it provides valuable lore and context for the upcoming questline.
Step 3: Pass the Piloting Simulation Exam
Now for the real test! You need to prove you have the mettle to be a Vanguard pilot. Head into the Vanguard Pilot Simulator in the Examination Chamber.
The Trial: You will be tasked with defeating several tiers of enemy ships in a simulated space combat scenario. You only need to complete three tiers to pass, but you can push yourself to complete all six for extra rewards and to impress Commander Tuala.
Tips for success:
Focus your power: Make sure your ship's power is properly allocated to your weapons, engines, and shields. A balanced approach is key.
Boost to evade: When an enemy missile locks on, use your boost to break the lock and avoid damage.
Strafe and maneuver: Don't just fly in a straight line. Use your thrusters to strafe and make yourself a harder target.
Use the debug console (optional): Located near the simulation chamber's exit, there's a "Simulation Controls" console. You can use it to activate debug tools, such as generating an allied ship or boosting your shields and weapons. The game even encourages you to use anything you find in the room, so don't feel bad about it! Using these cheats will make the test a breeze and still allow you to pass with flying colors.
Report your score: Once you've completed the required tiers, exit the simulator and head back to Commander Tuala. He'll be impressed with your performance and grant you provisional membership.
Step 4: Complete Your Probationary Mission: "Grunt Work"
You're a provisional member, but to become a full-fledged Vanguard, you need to complete a real-world mission. Your first task is called "Grunt Work."
Speak to Crew Chief Herath: First, head to the New Atlantis Spaceport and find Crew Chief Herath. He will give you the necessary supplies and a welcome goodie bag.
Travel to Tau Ceti II: Your destination is the Tau Ceti system, specifically the Tau Gourmet Production Center on the planet Tau Ceti II.
Encounter the Terrormorph: Upon arrival, you'll discover that the settlement is in ruins. You'll meet a researcher named Hadrian, who reveals the terrifying truth: a Terrormorph has ravaged the colony. This is where the real action begins.
Defeat the Beast: To help Hadrian and complete your mission, you'll need to kill the Terrormorph. You can do this by activating the facility's turrets and luring the creature into the "kill lanes," or you can take it on directly with your weapons.
Collect the sample and report back: After defeating the Terrormorph, collect a tissue sample from its corpse for Hadrian. Then, return to Commander Tuala in New Atlantis to debrief him on your success. He'll be thoroughly impressed with your initiative and bravery.
Step 5: Swear the Oath and Become a UC Vanguard!
After you report back to Commander Tuala, he'll recognize your success on the probationary mission and officially induct you into the UC Vanguard. You'll swear an oath and receive your official UC Vanguard ID, spacesuit, helmet, and pilot pack.
Congratulations! You are now a full-fledged member of the United Colonies Vanguard. This unlocks the entire UC Vanguard questline, which is a thrilling narrative that will take you across the Settled Systems to face a sinister threat.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to find Commander Tuala? Commander Tuala is located in the main lobby of the MAST building in the MAST District of New Atlantis, Jemison. He is behind a desk on the left side of the lobby as you enter.
How to pass the Vanguard Pilot Simulator exam easily? You can use the "Simulation Controls" console near the exit of the simulator to activate debug tools that boost your ship's shields and weapons, making it much easier to defeat the enemy ships.
How to get UC Citizenship in Starfield? By completing the entire UC Vanguard questline, you will eventually be granted UC citizenship, which comes with benefits like the ability to purchase property in New Atlantis.
How to start the "Grunt Work" quest? The "Grunt Work" quest is the probationary mission you receive from Commander Tuala after you complete the "Supra Et Ultra" quest, which involves signing up and passing the piloting simulator exam.
How to get a free apartment in New Atlantis? You can get a free penthouse apartment in New Atlantis as a reward after completing the "Hostile Intelligence" quest, which is a later mission in the UC Vanguard questline.
How to defeat the Terrormorph in "Grunt Work"? You can either activate the facility's turrets and use them to help you, or you can engage the Terrormorph in direct combat. Activating the turrets is a highly recommended strategy for players with lower-level gear.
How to access the Vanguard Orientation Hall? You can access the Vanguard Orientation Hall by taking the elevator in the MAST building lobby after speaking with Commander Tuala and accepting the "Supra Et Ultra" mission.
How to find the MAST building in New Atlantis? The MAST building is a massive, prominent structure in the MAST District of New Atlantis. You can easily reach the district by taking the NAT tram.
How to join the UC Vanguard if I am part of another faction? You can join multiple factions in Starfield, including the UC Vanguard, without any penalty. Your membership with one faction does not prevent you from joining others.
How to get more credits from the Vanguard questline? In addition to the quest rewards, you can earn extra credits by completing the optional objectives in some missions, such as completing all six tiers of the piloting simulation exam.