You're likely to have seen stories about super-heroes destroying everything in battle if you like military fiction. This type of fiction depicts war as a battle between evil and good, with the heroes using cool technology to enter battle. They either win the war or lose it. In many cases they even risk their lives. You can find military fiction upbeat, sad and even disturbing. It has much to offer, especially if done well.
Character
Films and novels about military sci-fi depict the roles of military organisations and tactics in conflict situations. Stories are inspired by actual Earth conflicts. However, the stories alter the location, technology and weapons to make them more plausible. For example, countries in Starship Troopers are replaced with planets or similar galaxies, and battleships are replaced with spaceships. The storylines also have different structures, such as chains of command.
Setting
Sci Fi's strongest setting is the military. Although this genre is often about a future where military rule rules the world it also explores the present and the people involved. It provides the perfect setting for social commentary. Starship Troopers, by Robert Heinlein, focuses on the responsibility of citizens to shape the destiny of their country. Joe Halderman has also created The Forever War based upon his Vietnam war experience.
Storyline
There are many different ways to tell compelling stories in military science fiction novels. Start by looking at the chain of command for a weapon system. You will need to understand how higher command levels operate and the autonomy of each one. Think about the structure of checks and balances. The U.S. has, for instance, all the services have an inspector general to check in on the major commands.
Conflict
Sci-fi stories often feature military conflict as a main theme. These stories often feature battles between military forces and alien forces. These stories often stress traditional military values and emphasize the role of willpower and military virtues.
Stories about invasion
Invasion stories are a common theme in science fiction and military thrillers. Invasion stories have a long and varied history. However, the genre has changed over time. Invasion stories have appeared from Soviet infiltration to Communist conquest over the past century. Many invasion stories today focus on the threat posed in China by communist China. This threat not only threatens the US's physical integrity, but also its economic well-being.
Genres and styles of sci fi military fiction
There are many kinds of sci-fi military fiction. Star Wars may not be a good example but there are many books, movies and films that feature military action. A few examples are Battlestar Galactica, Space: Above and Beyond, and the CoDominium series.