Hey Citizens, check out the latest design post from CIG: https://robertsspaceindustries.com/comm-link/transmission/14502-Design-Rental-Equipment-Credits
CIG has detailed a prototype system of Arena Commander credits, which will be used to rent ships and weapons in game. Rentals will last one week, and can be renewed for a slight discount after that. This system will be shipping out with Arena Commander 1.1, which will be coming SoonTM as always.
These credits can be earned by playing Arena Commander, and the exact amounts earned vary by game mode. CIG has decided against permanent unlocks to avoid possible exploits, and to distinguish this from Persistent Universe progression.