Does the AI actually use mines?

[Sidelingknave]

I've encountered a few ships that had the large mine catapults, but haven't seen any mines floating about in combat.
I also put two mine launchers on each side of my freighter so it could do more while running away in combat, but I haven't seen it use them either.

[RoriconKnight]

yes, i remember the brotherhood, conglomerates, and larger pirates on northwestern side of the map do use mines.

the cluster mine can delete most flying birds pretty quick.

also, not all mine lingers around.

[sintri]

Mines get used. Mines for your squad have a toggle on the ship it's armed, it's like fliers since they can be heavily detrimental to your ammo usage.

Mines are great if you can spare the ammo since they're numerous, attract interceptor fire, and deal aoe.

[Flicken]

Enemies definitely use them, hardest fight I have had two mine launchers on each side. Had to stay at long range and let my riders take him out, while my interceptors shot all the mines down.