EVE Online — Drake Guide: Best Fits, Skills, and Tactics in EVE Online

The Drake is one of the most iconic Caldari Battlecruisers in EVE Online, renowned for its passive shield tank and missile-based damage. Whether you’re running Level 3 missions, ratting, or engaging in PvP, the Drake is a versatile and forgiving ship. This guide covers everything you need to know about the Drake, including fits, skills, tactics, and mission strategies.

Drake Overview

Best Fits for the Drake In EVE Online

1. Passive Tank PvE Fit (Level 3 Missions)

Slot	Module
High Slots	6x Heavy Missile Launcher II
Mid Slots	10MN Afterburner II Large Shield Extender II x2 Multispectrum Shield Hardener II
Low Slots	Ballistic Control System II x3 Shield Power Relay II x2
Rigs	Medium Core Defense Field Purger I x3
Drones	Hobgoblin II x5
Ammo	Scourge Heavy Missiles

• Why It Works: This fit maximizes shield regeneration and missile damage, making it ideal for Level 3 missions. The passive tank allows you to sustain damage without relying on active modules.

2. Active Tank PvE Fit (Level 3 Missions)

Slot	Module
High Slots	6x Heavy Missile Launcher II
Mid Slots	10MN Afterburner II Large Shield Extender II Large Shield Booster II Multispectrum Shield Hardener II
Low Slots	Damage Control II Ballistic Control System II x3
Rigs	Medium Capacitor Control Circuit I x3
Drones	Hobgoblin II x5
Ammo	Scourge Heavy Missiles

• Why It Works: This fit uses an active shield booster for higher burst tanking, making it more versatile for tougher missions. It’s cap-stable with proper skills.

3. PvP Fit (Faction Warfare)

Slot	Module
High Slots	6x Heavy Assault Missile Launcher II
Mid Slots	10MN Afterburner II Stasis Webifier II Warp Scrambler II Large Shield Extender II
Low Slots	Ballistic Control System II x3 Damage Control II
Rigs	Medium EM Shield Reinforcer I Medium Core Defense Field Purger I x2
Drones	Hobgoblin II x5
Ammo	Scourge Rage Heavy Assault Missiles

• Why It Works: This fit focuses on close-range combat with Heavy Assault Missiles and tackling modules to lock down enemies. It’s effective in small-scale PvP engagements.

In Skill Plan for the Drake In EVE Online

• Advanced Skills: Train Heavy Missiles V, Shield Upgrades IV, and Advanced Weapon Upgrades IV for optimal performance.

Tactics and Mission Strategies

1. Level 3 Missions

• Range Management: Stay at 30-50km from NPCs to minimize incoming damage while maximizing missile range.
• Target Priority: Focus on battlecruisers and battleships first, as they deal the most damage.
• Passive Tanking: Use shield extenders and power relays to maintain a strong passive tank.
• Warp-Out Strategy: Always align to a celestial object and be ready to warp out if your shield drops below 25%.

2. PvP Tactics

• Kiting: Use Heavy Missiles to engage enemies at range while maintaining speed with an Afterburner.
• Tackling: Use Stasis Webifiers and Warp Scramblers to lock down targets and prevent escape.
• Drones: Deploy Hobgoblin II drones to deal additional damage to smaller ships.

Pros and Cons of the Drake In EVE Online

The Drake is a fantastic ship for new and intermediate players, offering a balance of tankiness, damage, and affordability. Whether you’re running Level 3 missions or engaging in Faction Warfare, the Drake is a reliable choice. For more advanced players, consider transitioning to ships like the Tengu or Rattlesnake for higher DPS and versatility.

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