Even Lee’s review of the Anvil Hawk highlights its origins as a military light fighter with a popular civilian U9C model featuring an EMP generator and prisoner containment, making it a versatile and fast-claim ship ideal for PvP combat. Praised for its strong firepower, improved shields, agility, and sleek design, the Hawk earns a 90/100 rating despite minor drawbacks like outdated features and less effective default weapons.
In this review of the Anvil Hawk from Star Citizen, Even Lee provides an in-depth look at the ship’s history, design, and performance. Originally developed for a military contract under Project Brawler, the Hawk shared many components with Anvil’s Hornet line and was intended to be an efficient light fighter. Although it did not see widespread use in the UEE Navy due to its niche capabilities, the civilian U9C model, which is currently available in-game, gained popularity. This model includes an EMP generator designed to disable targets instead of destroying them and a containment pod for prisoner transport, reflecting its tailored civilian role.
The ship’s claim time is notably quick, with a standard respawn of 6 minutes and 48 seconds and an expedited option of just 2 minutes and 16 seconds, making it ideal for players who want to get back into combat swiftly. In terms of firepower, the Hawk is equipped with two size one sucker punch distortion cannons and four size two CF227 Badgers, plus a powerful EMP burst generator that can disable enemy radar and systems at close range. Even Lee highlights the tactical advantage this EMP provides in PvP combat, allowing pilots to disrupt opponents and secure kills more effectively.
While the default distortion guns are less effective against anything larger than light fighters, the reviewer recommends alternative weapon packages such as a full CF or NN setup, both of which performed well in his PvP tests. The ship’s shields have been improved, now offering 16,600 ship HP and quick regeneration, enhancing survivability in battle. Its speed and maneuverability are competitive with other light fighters, featuring a top SCM speed of 225, a strong forward boost, and a sizable boost tank that allows sustained agility during fights.
The exterior design of the Anvil Hawk is praised for its aggressive and sleek appearance, with detailed attention to aesthetic and functional features. The cockpit includes four multifunction displays (MFDs) providing comprehensive information and an ejection seat for pilot safety. Storage space is accessible, and the rear compartment is designed to attach prisoner pods, although the ship no longer includes a bed for crew rest. The reviewer notes a vulnerability in the windshield, which can be damaged by certain weapons, adding a layer of risk during combat.
Overall, Even Lee rates the Anvil Hawk a strong 90 out of 100, placing it in the S-tier category alongside other top light fighters like the Arrow, Gladius, and L21 Wolf. The ship’s combination of firepower, speed, and unique EMP capabilities make it a formidable choice for PvP engagements. The only drawbacks mentioned are some outdated features such as the missing bed and the limited utility of the default distortion cannons. Despite these minor issues, the Anvil Hawk is highly recommended for players seeking a competitive and versatile light fighter in Star Citizen.