The Anaconda, a flagship vessel in Elite Dangerous, is renowned for its versatility, capable of fulfilling numerous roles from trading to combat. This article delves into a specialized build, the “TUCK Joat tactical,” transforming this iconic ship into a potent Tactical Transporter Fd. This configuration emphasizes a balance between firepower, defense, and crucially, jump range, making it ideal for commanders who need to project force and cargo across the galaxy efficiently. Let’s dissect the components that make this build a formidable tactical asset.
Unveiling the Anaconda “TUCK Joat tactical” Specifications
Before diving into the module specifics, understanding the raw capabilities of the “TUCK Joat tactical” Anaconda is crucial. This build boasts impressive core statistics:
- Mass: 1,122.44 T (empty) / 1,298.44 T (full)
- Fuel Capacity: 32 T
- Cargo Capacity: 144 T
- Cabins: 0
- Speed: 292 m/s (389 m/s boost)
- Jump Range: 41.15 LY (unladen) / 37.75 LY (laden) – A significant range for a tactical transporter FD, enabling swift deployment across star systems.
- Power: 32.53 MW (retracted) / 46.72 MW (deployed) / 48.68 MW (available)
- Shield Strength: 2,613.2 MJ
- Armour Strength: 2,425.5 HP
- Damage Output: 122.8 burst DPS
- Price: 769,094,685 CR
- Re-Buy Cost: 38,454,734 CR (at 95% insurance)
These figures highlight a ship that is not only well-armed and shielded but also possesses exceptional jump range, a hallmark of an effective tactical transporter FD. The “FD” element, referring to the Frame Shift Drive, is clearly optimized for long-distance travel, a critical attribute for tactical operations.
Tactical Module Breakdown: Offense, Defense, and Utility
The effectiveness of the “TUCK Joat tactical” Anaconda lies in its carefully selected modules, each engineered to contribute to its tactical transporter role.
Hardpoints: Striking a Balance
The weapon loadout is designed for versatile engagement:
- Huge Hardpoint: 4A/G Multi-cannon (Efficient 5, Oversized) – This main weapon delivers substantial damage with efficiency modifications to manage power draw and thermal load, crucial for sustained combat engagements.
- Large Hardpoints (x2): 3C/G Multi-cannon (Sturdy 5, Corrosive Shell) & 3D/T Beam Laser (Overcharged 4) – The mix of multi-cannons with corrosive shells for armour penetration and beam lasers for shield stripping provides tactical flexibility against varied enemy types.
- Medium Hardpoints (x2): 2B/F Seismic Charge Launcher & 2B/T Sub-surface Displacement Missile – These specialized weapons add a strategic dimension, useful for disabling subsystems or engaging specific target types, expanding the tactical toolkit beyond direct damage.
- Small Hardpoints (x2): 1D/F Mining Laser & 1D/T Abrasion Blaster – While seemingly unconventional for a tactical role, these mining tools suggest a potential for resource gathering in hostile environments or even unconventional combat applications.
Defensive Measures: Fortified and Resilient
Survival is paramount for a tactical transporter FD, and this build excels in defense:
- Shield Boosters (x3): 0A (Heavy Duty 5 x2), 0B (Heavy Duty 5, Super Capacitors) – Multiple shield boosters, heavily engineered, provide exceptional shield strength, crucial for absorbing damage in prolonged engagements.
- Point Defence (x2): 0I/T (Ammo Capacity 1) – Countering missile threats is vital, and dual point defense systems enhance survivability against projectile-heavy assaults.
- Reactive Surface Composite Armour (1A, Heavy Duty 5) – Reinforced hull plating further bolsters resilience against kinetic and thermal attacks, making the Anaconda a tough target to crack.
- Prismatic Shield Generator (6A, Reinforced 5, Fast Charge) – A top-tier shield generator, engineered for strength and regeneration, forms the core of the ship’s defenses.
- Guardian Shield Reinforcement Package (5D) – Adding to the shield robustness, this Guardian technology further enhances shield capacity.
Utility and Support Systems: Enhancing Tactical Awareness
Beyond firepower and defense, utility modules contribute significantly to the “TUCK Joat tactical” role:
- Frame Shift Wake Scanner (0A, Fast Scan 3) – Essential for tracking and intercepting enemy vessels or following specific targets across systems, a key component for a tactical transporter FD engaged in pursuit or reconnaissance.
- Pulse Wave Analyser (0A) – Useful for locating valuable resources or hidden objects, adding a layer of exploration capability to the tactical role.
- Heat Sink Launcher (0I) – Managing heat is crucial in combat, and a heat sink launcher provides an emergency cooling measure during intense engagements.
- Detailed Surface Scanner (1I, Expanded Radius 1) – Further enhancing exploration utility, this scanner allows for efficient planetary surveying.
- Advanced Docking Computer (1E) & Supercruise Assist (1E) – Quality of life modules that streamline routine tasks, allowing the pilot to focus on tactical decisions.
Core Systems: The Engine of Tactical Prowess
The core modules are meticulously selected for performance and efficiency:
- Power Plant (8A, Overcharged 5) – An overcharged power plant provides ample energy for all systems, ensuring no compromise on firepower or defenses.
- Thrusters (7A, Dirty Tuning 5, Drag Drives) – Dirty-tuned thrusters with drag drives enhance maneuverability, crucial for a ship of this size in tactical engagements.
- Frame Shift Drive (6A, Increased Range 5, Mass Manager) – The heart of the tactical transporter FD designation, this engineered FSD maximizes jump range, enabling rapid deployment and strategic positioning across vast distances.
- Power Distributor (8A, High Charge Capacity 3) – A high-capacity power distributor ensures sufficient energy for weapons, engines, and systems, vital for sustained tactical operations.
Optional Internals: Cargo and Support
The remaining internal compartments are configured for practical utility:
- Cargo Racks (7E, 4E) – A substantial cargo capacity (128T + 16T corrosion-resistant) reinforces the transporter aspect, allowing for logistical support alongside tactical operations.
- Fuel Scoop (6A) – Enables independent refueling from stars, extending operational range and self-sufficiency for prolonged deployments.
- Guardian Frame Shift Drive Booster (5H) – Further augmenting the jump range, this booster is key to the tactical transporter FD‘s long-distance capabilities.
- Collector Limpet Controller (5D, Shielded 4) & Prospector Limpet Controller (5A) – These modules support resource gathering and material acquisition, potentially for self-sufficiency or mission objectives.
- Refinery (4A) – Allows for on-site refining of collected materials, enhancing resource utilization.
- Planetary Vehicle Hangar (4H) – Provides ground-based exploration and operational capability, extending the tactical reach beyond space.
Conclusion: The Versatile Tactical Transporter
The Anaconda “TUCK Joat tactical” build is a testament to the ship’s inherent versatility. By carefully selecting and engineering each module, this configuration transforms the Anaconda into a highly capable tactical transporter FD. It excels at long-range deployments, offering a potent combination of firepower, defense, and cargo capacity. Whether for leading combat operations, conducting long-range reconnaissance, or providing logistical support in hostile territories, this build stands as a robust and adaptable choice for commanders seeking a multi-role tactical advantage in Elite Dangerous.