Hitpoints (often abbreviated as HP) determines how resilient a ship's hull is to attack. It is used to determine who wins in a combat situation. All other things being equal, the ship with the most hit points is likely to win a battle.
Hit points can be gained over time as a ship's crew acquires experience. Specific technologies such as Arnorian Battle Armor, Reinforced Hull Design, and Hardened Hull Design as well as Xinathium Hull Plating will also increase hit points.
Damaged ships may regenerate lost hit points via Repair.