I use Android Tiers, Glittertech (no surgery), and Rimatomics. My colonies always end up with just the most insane defenses with super powered androids.
Anyone who makes their way to my colony will find the most lavish place on the rim.
*We may or may not be using human hearts to till our soil.
All colonies are merely a stopgap measure of resources gathering so we can begin the true game, hotel management!