The Ancients are the strongest of the factions. They have powerful weaponary and excellent ships. Though they lack shields their superior hulls make up for it.
The Shivans shouldn't be underestimated. They are still the big threat with ships like the Gorgon, Diablo, Iblis and Gigas.
The Terrans have better ships than normal. Capships like the Boreas are used for heavy assault while vessels like the Hecate 2 are used for general purpose.
The SOC are the specialised fleet. They have some of the best technology and get ships like the Banshee faster than the standard GTVA pilots. The Olemus is their flagship and the strongest Terran ship in the campaign except for the Apocalypse.
The Vasudans have strong and powerful ships. However they lack the speed of their Terran counterparts. Ships like the Apothess give them an advantage.
The EA are an average group. Most of their ships are generalsed. They win through superior skill rather than superior technology.