The Vanguard Exploration Service was a branch of the revered Vanguard organization that officially formed on July 10, 3001. The purpose of the VES was multi-pronged: First and foremost, it served the Vanguard as a scout and patrol service. Second, it conducted exploratory missions among the known worlds and in deep space. Third, it paid for itself through commercial contracts for civilian-partnership scientific missions and cargo hauling.