· Caliber Dynamics · Reviews · 2 min read
MISC Starlancer TAC First Look: The Military Dropship Arrives
The MISC Starlancer TAC brings heavy armor, troop transport, and serious firepower to the Starlancer family. We take a first look at the military dropship.
What Is the Starlancer TAC?
The MISC Starlancer TAC is the military variant of the Starlancer series. While the Starlancer MAX handles cargo, the TAC is purpose-built for combat troop deployment and gunship operations. It was revealed at Invictus Launch Week 2955 and immediately became one of the most talked-about ships in the event.
Think of it as MISC’s answer to the question: “What if a hauler could fight back?”
Design & Layout
The TAC shares the Starlancer hull but replaces the cargo bay with:
- Troop seating for a full squad deployment
- Weapon racks and equipment storage
- Reinforced armor plating over critical sections
- Enhanced turret positions with expanded fire arcs
The cockpit and flight characteristics remain familiar to Starlancer MAX pilots, which means the transition is smooth if you already know the platform.
Combat Capability
Offense
The TAC carries significantly more forward-facing firepower than the MAX. Multiple turret positions provide overlapping fields of fire, making it dangerous from almost any angle. The pilot-controlled weapons hit hard enough to threaten medium fighters.
Defense
Heavy armor is the TAC’s calling card. It can absorb punishment that would shred lighter ships. Shield coverage is solid but not exceptional — the armor does the heavy lifting.
Mobility
This is where the TAC pays for its armor. It’s not agile. Turning rates are sluggish compared to dedicated combat ships, and acceleration is modest. You’re not dogfighting in this thing — you’re punching through to your objective and deploying troops.
Who Is This For?
The Starlancer TAC is an org ship. It shines when used as part of coordinated operations:
- Drop teams onto contested locations
- Provide fire support during ground operations
- Serve as a mobile rally point for squad operations
Solo players will find it underwhelming. The turrets need crew, the troop bay needs troops, and the ship needs escorts.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Excellent armor for its class
- Strong multi-crew firepower
- Troop deployment capability fills a unique niche
- Familiar Starlancer platform
Cons:
- Poor solo performance
- Sluggish handling
- Requires coordinated crew to unlock full potential
- Expensive for a specialized role ship
CDYN Verdict
The Starlancer TAC is exactly the kind of ship CDYN needs for organized operations. Our Security division should be paying attention — this is a force multiplier when paired with fighter escorts and ground teams.
Rating: 7/10 — Excellent at its job, but that job requires an organized team. Perfect for orgs, mediocre for solos.
