I don't think warp drive is the only criterion that determines whether the Prime Directive applies. How about a species that has subspace communications technology as advanced as the Federation but simply never developed warp drive? That can tune in to all galactic streaming services they want and know the current status of affairs in the Alpha Quadrant? Or perhaps even a primitive bronze age species that totally accepts the notion of aliens living around other stars and that welcomes visitors (such as the Edo people). Granted, the Chalnoth don't seem to either of those types.
It's just that warp drive technology seems about the latest point after which a species can no longer remain ignorant about the universe around them - unless they choose not to use that warp drive, perhaps.
It's just that warp drive technology seems about the latest point after which a species can no longer remain ignorant about the universe around them - unless they choose not to use that warp drive, perhaps.
