It absolutely can, but I think it only applies to star gravity wells which can support 4 Bases. More effective is a defensive combo in TEC starbases giong 2x Weapon 3x Hull, 2x Docking Booms, and 1x WILD CARD! (probably off world government when it's working) Surround that starbase with Tons and tons of Gauss, a few Flak'd Hangars and 2-3 Repair platforms and you have yourself a defensive position that will require a fleet to bust.