*Alert I have no idea of informatics and game programing/modeling so i can't even imagine the hard work it can represent*
After reading this...
' Wrote:[...]
the concept is that lawfuls would most probably not destroy the cargo just then - but try to chase the pirate crew, which has now become small and agile like a fighter - or freighter. - leaving the valuable cargo behind - ready to be picked up. - so the lawfuls either leave forces behind - or leave the cargo unprotected - at least for a short time. - in which a backup group may pick it up again.
[...]
... and if I've understood well --> Pirate train is (more or less) pirate lifter + Cargo pod mounted so...
It could be possible to set 2 ships "propierties" in one model, and be able to unmount in game the cargo pod while traveling with the following 3 possible situations in one ship:
Situation A: Pirate train (pirate lifter + carog pod mounted) : Agility, velocity, and cargo space of a transport (if get caught and decides to drop/unmount the cargo pod--> situation B)
Situation B: Pirate lifter: Agility, velocity and cargo space of a freighter/bomber/fighter (whatever is decied)
Situation C = A: A backup fleet arrives with a second pirate lifter or the first one is able to "distract" the authorities and mount/tracor the corgo pod
Thanks for your work Jinx!!!!
(this post have been edited to erase subjective opinons like i love it!!)