I'm not sure if this is possible as a "server side" only option but it has been in my head a lot lately.

GÇó A clarification on GÇ£server side changesGÇ£ versus GÇ£client updatesGÇ£. Most of the attributes of items can be changed in our backend system, called CATMA.
GÇó Adding new weapons and dropsuits with existing functionality, changing weapon damage, dropsuit hp and slots, pg and cpu values, and most of the values needed for balancing items and roles can be changed during server downtime.

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Yeah there should be a weapon that just attacks armour. Instantly knocks your armour down to at least of half it's base value. To 'create openings' for your squadmates, as you put it.

Totally fair, right?

Um... or you could use the regular mass driver? Which clears out equipment very efficiently, as a matter of fact. It didn't use to be that amazing at it, but after the huge nerf to equipment HP? Does a fantastic job.