What is Salvage used for in Star Trek Online?

Salvage is a currency used for re-engineering eligible equipment modifiers. You get it by salvaging eligible unwanted gear. Salvaging permanently destroys the item.

Direct Answer

Salvage unwanted eligible gear for re-engineering resources

When you salvage

The item is destroyed.

Eligible loot can be salvaged from its item menu. You receive Salvage and additional R&D materials in return.

What Salvage is for

Re-engineering equipment modifiers.

Re-engineering uses Salvage and Dilithium to reroll eligible modifiers on equipment.

Sources checked: STO Wiki: Salvage · STO Wiki: Re-engineering

Before You Click

Keep, sell or salvage?

Choice	Use it when	What happens
Keep	You may equip, upgrade or use the item later.	The item stays with you.
Sell	You would rather get Energy Credits.	You receive vendor value, or a player-sale price if the item is tradeable and sold on the Exchange.
Salvage	You do not need the eligible item and want Salvage or R&D materials.	The item is destroyed permanently.