Newcomer / Intro conflict training

[Esteban]

Greetings, CMDRs. I was watching a stream in which the character was just starting out. I noticed in the missions board that there appear missions entitled "conflict training."
I don't remember these when I started out. Anyone know what these are? Curious.

 

[Para Handy]

They are missions in conflict zones in Orna (conflict between Alpha and Onega Companies) - be prepared to die.

 

[CMDR Jago Kain]

I tried these missions with my alt CMDR after seeing a rant about how they're an impossible deathtrap for n00bs. Here's what I found:

Stock sidewinder - You need a lot of patience and good fleeing skills. Don't bother, those little lasers are pathetic.

Viper mkIII - With two medium lasers and two small cannons this is a decent killer. Learn the usual CZ tactics of using allies to gang up on a weak enemy. Once your side starts to get the numerical advantage winning the battle is very possible.