Here's how I saved up enough for a UE cruiser:

Go over to the Dogovor system. It's the best place for undefended Voinian Freighters. Disable one, board it, take the cargo, and, if you can, capture it. The idea is to have lots of Freighters. When they are full, fly around the first few systems into UE space to find a good place to sell (Note: If you get equipment, you can sell it right there at Pax Station.)

Hamsters are WAYYYYY better...

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#29 on the Periodic Table