NPC claiming sectors?

[Gryoz]

Is the NPC races supposed to be able to claim sectors? I noticed in my game that I suddenly had fewer HSAPs available to claim with the explorers guild and looking around at the map noticed that NPCs had claimed several HSAP sectors, even built TOAs in some cases! Is this working as intended? I've seen someone say that something happens when you build non-plot TOAs, do I have to rush to build them now before the sectors are all claimed?

[Snafu_X3]

DEV Cycrow said that 2 sectors are guaranteed to be claimed by other factions, however I've no idea if they'll claim others if the situation arises

[Gryoz]

Well I've had more than 2 be claimed at least.

Consecrated Fire beta was claimed by the Paranid,
Menelaus' Paradise beta was claimed by the Boron,
Light Water beta was claimed by the Boron,
Shining Currents beta was claimed by the Boron and
Lost Order beta was claimed by the Pirates (who also built a TOA!).

[UnknownObject]

DEV Cycrow said that 2 sectors are guaranteed to be claimed by other factions, however I've no idea if they'll claim others if the situation arises

If I produce 9 TOA kits at my HQ but delay deployment of the 1st one till they all are ready, can I claim all other zones?
Can I reclaim the zones by force?

[Afallon_Sk]

In my game NPCs claimed: Duke'đ Citadel Beta, Lasting Vengeance Beta, Rhonkar's Trial Beta, Dark Waters Beta, Unseen Domain Beta and Maelstrom Beta.