How To Defeat Automaton Gunships in Helldivers 2

By Daniel Hidalgo | 2025-07-09 08:53:06
Automaton Gunships in Helldivers 2 are among the most dangerous aerial threats you’ll face. These VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) aircraft patrol near Automaton facilities, relentlessly pursuing and attacking Helldivers with devastating rocket barrages.
A single rocket hit can send you flying and deal massive damage, while two will likely eliminate you instantly. To survive and counter these deadly foes, you’ll need the right weapons, tactics, and teamwork.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best strategies to take down Automaton Gunships efficiently and minimize their threat on the battlefield.

Best Weapons to Destroy Automaton Gunships


Choosing the right weapon is crucial when facing Gunships. Accuracy and range are key factors—here are the top options:

1. LAS-99 Quasar Cannon


  • Pros: Infinite ammo, no backpack required.
  • Cons: 8-second call-in time.
  • Best For: Sustained fire without reloading.

2. FAF-14 Spear


  • Pros: High damage, lock-on capability.
  • Cons: Requires distance and cover for safe use.
  • Best For: Long-range precision strikes.

3. Expendable Anti-Tank (EAT)


  • Pros: Fast call-in time, one-shot potential.
  • Cons: Limited uses per drop.
  • Best For: Quick, high-damage hits.

4. RS-422 Railgun (Overcharged)


  • Pros: High penetration, deadly in unsafe mode.
  • Cons: Requires precise aiming.
  • Best For: Skilled players who can land critical shots.

5. GR-8 Recoilless Rifle


  • Pros: Explosive damage, reliable performance.
  • Cons: Needs a backpack and team reloading.
  • Best For: Coordinated squad play.

6. LAS-98 Laser Cannon


  • Pros: Long-range accuracy, sustained fire.
  • Cons: Requires steady aim.
  • Best For: Keeping constant pressure on Gunships.

Key Strategies to Defeat Automaton Gunships

1. Target the Engines (Weak Point)


Automaton Gunships have separate health pools for their engines and main body.Destroying the engines instantly disables them, making this the fastestway to take them down.

2. Use Shield Generator Packs


A Shield Generator Pack can absorb rocket hits, giving you time to line up a shot without being interrupted.

3. Stay Mobile


Standing still makes you an easy target. Keep moving to avoid rocket barrages and reposition for better shots.

4. Watch for Explosions


When a Gunship crashes, it explodes. Avoid the crash site to prevent being caught in the blast.

5. Deploy Sentries for Support


If overwhelmed, Autocannon and Rocket Sentries can help suppress Gunships while you focus on other threats.

6. Destroy Gunship Facilities


Gunships spawn from Automaton Gunship Facilities. To stop reinforcements:


  • Locate and destroy the Fabricator inside.
  • Call in a Hellbomb for maximum destruction.
  • Coordinate with your team to secure the area.

Final Tips for Success


  • Teamwork is essential—assign roles (e.g., one player focuses on Gunships while others handle ground units).
  • Prioritize high-ground positions for better aim and visibility.
  • Combine weapons strategically—use long-range options like the Railgun or Spear before they get too close.


By mastering these tactics, you’ll turn Automaton Gunships from a deadlythreat into a manageable challenge. Stay sharp, Helldiver!

Tags: Cooperative shooter, Top-down shooter, Sci-fi action game, Helldivers 2 gameplay, Helldivers 2 tips, Helldivers 2 update
Platform(s): PlayStation 5 PS5, Windows PC
Genre(s): Action
Developer(s): Arrowhead Game Studios
Publisher(s): Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release date: 8 FEB 2024
Mode: Single-player, multiplayer
Age rating (PEGI): 18+
Video preview



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