🚀 Drake Clipper – Q&A Summary

The Drake Clipper is a versatile, solo-focused multi-role ship designed for players who want maximum flexibility.
Whether you’re crafting, exploring, fighting, or hauling small cargo, the Clipper lets you tackle multiple gameplay loops from one compact platform.

Below is a complete summary of the official Q&A with the Vehicle and Gameplay teams,
presented in a clean, Hangarbase-friendly format.

👤 What type of players is the Clipper designed for?

• Perfect for generalist players who enjoy switching between multiple activities.
• Ideal for solo captains wanting a ship that supports crafting, combat, travel, and utility without needing a crew.
• Great for players who prefer being self-sufficient during long sessions.

🛠️ Role & Position in the Drake Lineup

• Size-wise, the Clipper sits between the Cutter and the Corsair.
• In terms of function, it fills a unique generalist role.
• It supports multiple gameplay loops from a single frame — not a pure fighter or hauler, but a flexible hybrid.

🧩 On-board Amenities & Solo Operations

The Clipper offers everything needed for long-term solo adventures:

• Tier 3 Medical Bed
• Crafting / fabrication station
• 12 SCU cargo hold
• Accessible components for repairs
• Full habitation suite (sleep, storage, utilities)

➡️ Designed to support extended operations far from civilized space.

💥 Combat Performance

Though not a dedicated combat ship, the Clipper carries solid Drake firepower:

• Four Size-3 weapon hardpoints
• Eight Size-3 missile racks

Good for self-defense, skirmishes, and flexible loadouts.
Armor and defenses are moderate — enough for a general-purpose vessel.

📦 Hauling Capability

• With 12 SCU, it’s not a dedicated cargo ship.
• Best suited for:
  • Supplies
  • Loot
  • Light trading
  • Crafting materials

Transport is a support function, not the main focus.

⭐ What makes the Clipper unique?

Its standout trait is not one feature but the combination of all its systems in one compact Drake hull:

• Medical
• Crafting
• Cargo
• Solo living
• Strong weapons
• Utility access

A true Swiss Army knife for solo players.

🏥 Medical Facilities

• Equipped with a Tier 3 medical bed
• Supports injury treatment and player regeneration/respawn
• Perfect for long missions without visiting a medical center

💊 Storage & Inventory

• No dedicated medical shelves like the RSI Apollo.
• MedGel and supplies are stored via the ship’s general inventory.

⚔️ Equipment Storage

• Yes, an armor and weapon locker is included.
• Located on the mid deck, next to the scissor lift.

🛩️ Atmospheric Flight Performance

• Large wings provide strong lift once control surface systems are implemented.
• No VTOL thrusters.
• Expected to fly more like a plane within atmospheres.

🕹️ Wing Folding & Landing Behavior

• Wings cannot be folded mid-flight.
• Wing folding is tied to landing gear to ensure clearance inside hangars.
• Full-wing landing is not recommended due to hangar safety zones.

🧪 Crafting Capabilities

• At initial release: crafting small personal items.
• Crafting system will expand over time as the gameplay loop evolves.

Using Cargo Resources

• Design intent supports both methods:
  • Pulling materials directly from ship cargo
  • Or loading crafting inputs manually

🪐 Summary

The Drake Clipper is a versatile, self-sufficient ship built for:

• Solo combat (light/medium)
• Light hauling
• Long-range travel
• Medical support
• Crafting (present & future)
• Exploration
• Living off the grid

It fills a unique niche between the Cutter and the Corsair —
offering a multi-role, solo-friendly platform packed with Drake personality.

Based on the official developer Q&A for the Drake Clipper.