How to Beat Automaton: Dropship

Struggling with the Automaton Dropship in Helldivers 2? This guide breaks down the strategy and tips you need to take down this tough enemy and secure victory for Super Earth.

Alright Helldiver, let's talk about the Automaton Dropship. These big, clunky transports are a real pain, aren't they? They drop off waves of those tin-can enemies and can soak up a surprising amount of punishment. But don't worry, with the right approach, you can absolutely shut them down. Think of this less as a fight and more as a puzzle you need to solve efficiently.

Stats / Weaknesses:

• Armor: Heavily armored, especially on the front and sides. Aiming for weak points is key.
• Weak Points: The engines on the rear and the exposed weapon emplacements are your best bet. Hitting these deals critical damage.
• Vulnerability: While airborne and deploying troops, it's a prime target. Once it lands, it becomes more dangerous but still has exploitable weaknesses.

Phases:

1. Approach and Deployment: The Dropship will fly in, usually from off-screen, and begin lowering its ramp to deploy Automaton units. This is your primary window to attack its vulnerable rear engines.
2. On the Ground (Rare): Sometimes, a Dropship might land briefly. This is less common but makes it an even bigger threat. If it lands, focus fire on its engines or weapons.
3. Retreat: After deploying its troops, it will typically fly away, only to return later in the mission if more reinforcements are needed.

Strategy:

• Prioritize Targets: As soon as you hear or see a Dropship, make it your top priority. Ignoring it will lead to being overwhelmed by the reinforcements it brings.
• Use Heavy Weapons: Anti-materiel rifles, EATs (if you can spare one), Recoilless Rifles, or even a well-aimed Railgun shot can do significant damage. If you're running support, use your heavy stratagems like the Orbital Laser or 500kg Bomb if you can get a clean shot.
• Aim for the Engines: Seriously, this is the most crucial part. When it's flying in or hovering, get behind it if possible and unload everything you have into the glowing red engines. Destroying these will often cause it to crash or retreat prematurely.
• Clear Deploying Enemies: While you're focusing fire on the Dropship, be mindful of the enemies pouring out. Your teammates should be covering you or vice-versa, handling the ground threat while you deal with the air support.
• Use Terrain for Cover: The Dropship's turrets can be deadly. Use rocks, buildings, or any available cover to break line of sight while you reload or wait for an opening.
• Coordinate with Your Squad: If you're playing with others, call out the Dropship immediately. Designate who will focus fire on it while others handle the spawned enemies. A coordinated effort is far more effective than everyone shooting randomly.
• Don't Chase if it Retreats: If it flies off after deploying, let it go. It'll likely come back later if needed, and chasing it can lead you into dangerous territory or away from the main objective. Focus on surviving the current wave.