The Illuminate ships in Helldivers 2 are every soldier’s nightmare. They float above the battlefield like glowing executioners, raining down lasers, drones, and chaos until your squad is shredded. And yet, nothing feels sweeter than blasting one into cosmic dust. This guide will show you how to destroy Illuminate ships in Helldivers 2 with the right weapons, perfect timing, and squad tactics that never fail.
What Makes Illuminate Ships Dangerous
These aren’t Automaton dropships or bug carriers, they’re shielded alien war machines. Illuminate ships bombard the field with energy weapons and reinforcements, overwhelming careless squads. Ignore them, and you’re toast. Take them down, and you swing the entire mission back in your favor.
Best Weapons and Stratagems for Illuminate Ships
Regular rifles? Forget it. If you want to actually hurt these floating nightmares, you need heavy ordnance. Here’s what works best:
- Orbital Railcannon Strike: One of the strongest anti-ship tools. A precise hit tears right through shields.
- Expendable Anti-Tank (EAT-17): Easy to call in and reliable if you time the shot.
- Recoilless Rifle (with a buddy): Annoying to carry solo, but a squad with one support can wreck ships fast.
- Orbital Laser: Burns through alien armor and makes for a satisfying light show.
- Aerial Bombing Run: Best when ships hover low or pause, perfect for surprise devastation.
Positioning and Timing
It’s not just about weapons, it’s about when you pull the trigger.
- Fire when the ship is hovering to drop troops; its shield cycle briefly exposes it.
- Keep moving, standing still makes you a laser magnet.
- Use terrain and buildings as cover until your big strikes are ready.
Solo vs Squad Strategy
| Situation | Best Approach | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Solo | EAT-17 or Orbital Railcannon | Lightweight and doable without backup |
| Small Squad | Two heavy weapons + stratagem caller + support | Balanced and efficient |
| Full Squad | Stack Orbital strikes, coordinate recoilless rifles | Overwhelms ships before they retaliate |
Pro tip: Don’t waste stratagems by firing separately. Time your team’s strikes together, four shots in sync will break ships faster than a scattered barrage.
Extra Tips to Secure the Kill
- Stack cooldown buffs: Use Beascuits or gear that shorten stratagem cooldowns for more heavy fire.
- Ping targets: Let the squad know which ship is priority.
- Stay calm: Shield cycles are predictable, don’t panic-shoot.
- Exploit distractions: Bugs or Automatons nearby? Let them clash while you aim skyward.
Why Destroying Illuminate Ships Matters
Every Illuminate ship destroyed means fewer reinforcements, less laser fire, and more breathing room. Plus, let’s be honest: nothing beats the rush of seeing glowing alien tech explode while your squad celebrates below. That’s Helldivers glory at its finest.
Final Word on How to Destroy Illuminate Ships Helldivers
Illuminate ships in Helldivers 2 are intimidating, but they’re not invincible. With the right stratagems, precise timing, and coordinated squad tactics, you can destroy Illuminate ships in Helldivers 2 and secure victory for Super Earth. Stay sharp, soldier, the galaxy won’t free itself.
Suggested Read: Impalers Helldivers 2 How to Win Every Fight
