The video provides an in-depth review of the Drake Ironclad and its assault variant, highlighting their robust design, substantial cargo and ground vehicle transport capabilities, and tactical versatility within Star Citizen. The host emphasizes the ships’ unique roles, thoughtful modularity, and potential as valuable assets for players pursuing trading or combat careers, while encouraging community discussion and in-game progression.
The video is a detailed concept review of the Drake Ironclad, a large cargo and assault ship in Star Citizen, presented by Loud Guns. The host prefers to analyze ships after initial hype has settled and more information has emerged, making the Ironclad an exciting prospect as its release seems more imminent, potentially at the upcoming Intergalactic Aerospace Expo (IAE). The Ironclad comes in two variants: the base cargo hauler and the assault variant focused on ground vehicle transport and deployment, filling a niche in the mid-to-large cargo ship segment with a cargo capacity of around 1,536 SCU for the base and just under 1,000 SCU for the assault.
Both variants share a robust, no-frills Drake aesthetic with heavy armor and a boxy design, emphasizing utility and protection. The ship features multiple entrances, including a command module and airlock for personnel, as well as a large cargo bay with a retractable armored roof and a ramp for easy loading and unloading. This design supports various cargo operations, especially in EVA, and makes the ship versatile for both legal and potentially illicit cargo transport. Notably, the Ironclad is not designed to carry other ships but focuses on cargo and ground vehicles, with the assault variant having a wider ramp for larger vehicles like the Nova tank.
Armament differs between the two variants, with the base model balancing weapons and utility, including tractor beam turrets for cargo handling, while the assault variant prioritizes firepower with multiple turrets positioned for offensive and defensive capabilities, including an innovative interior defense turret inside the cargo bay to protect against boarding. Both versions share similar component setups, including multiple power plants, coolers, shield generators, and independent quantum drives for the detachable command module, which can serve as an escape pod or scout ship, adding tactical flexibility.
The interior layout includes crew quarters, engineering spaces, and a command deck that acts as a control center rather than a piloting bridge. The cargo hold on the base version is designed with efficient box-sized cargo in mind, featuring gantries for easy access and a secure front section inspired by police evidence lockers for high-value goods. The assault variant sacrifices some cargo space for a vehicle repair bay, enabling it to function as a forward operating base for ground vehicles, with potential secondary roles like salvaging support due to its repair capabilities and cargo capacity.
In conclusion, the Drake Ironclad and its assault variant offer unique capabilities that fill a gap in Star Citizen’s cargo and ground vehicle transport roles. The host appreciates the thoughtful design, modularity, and tactical options the ship provides, encouraging players to consider it as a stepping stone in their trading or combat careers. He also invites feedback and discussion from viewers about the ship’s role and potential, while reminding them to earn ships in-game rather than purchasing outright, and expresses excitement about the community’s growth and future content.