EgoSoft sent over the following:

    We are happy to be able to finally announce the release date of X²-The Threat. The game will be released in late September 2003.

    The exact day of release will depend on the local publishers and will be announced in due course.

    EGOSOFT is currently in positive negotiations with publishers on a territory by territory basis.

    In the meantime you can preorder the game at their online shop.

With the above information they sent over some new screenshots of the new in-game menu system. You can see them here.