The Illuminate are a dangerous faction in Helldivers 2, known for their advanced technology, stealth abilities, and devastating plasma weaponry. Fighting them requires more than brute force—you’ll need the right gear, teamwork, and well-balanced loadouts. Whether you’re a solo soldier or part of a coordinated squad, this guide covers 11 of the best loadouts to handle the Illuminate efficiently and stay one step ahead of their energy-based attacks.

1. Balanced Assault Loadout

Primary: AR-23 Liberator
Secondary: P-2 Peacemaker
Stratagems: Supply Pack, Eagle Strafing Run, Shield Generator Pack, Orbital Precision Strike
This classic setup offers a balance of offense and defense, ideal for mixed engagements. The Shield Generator helps mitigate laser damage, giving you time to recover and reposition.

2. Anti-Shield Specialist

Primary: SG-8 Punisher
Secondary: LAS-7 Dagger
Stratagems: Orbital Laser, Anti-Tank Mines, Shield Generator, Resupply
The Punisher’s heavy rounds work well against energy shields, while the Dagger’s precision beam helps finish off Illuminate Elites. Orbital Laser is key for dealing with clustered enemies or fast-moving Seeker Drones.

3. Sniper Suppression Build

Primary: DMR-2 Marksman
Secondary: P-19 Redeemer
Stratagems: Orbital Railcannon, Guard Dog Rover, Resupply, Smoke Strike
Use the DMR-2 to eliminate Illuminate Snipers and Observers from long range. The Guard Dog Rover protects your flanks from stealth attackers.

4. Heavy Weapons Demolisher

Primary: MG-206 Heavy Machine Gun
Secondary: LAS-98 Laser Cannon
Stratagems: Supply Pack, Orbital Airburst Strike, Anti-Personnel Mines, Resupply
This loadout focuses on overwhelming firepower. The MG-206 tears through groups, while the Laser Cannon is perfect for piercing shields and mechanical enemies.

5. Mobility Scout Build

Primary: SMG-72 Pummeler
Secondary: P-4 Senator
Stratagems: Jump Pack, Eagle Cluster Bomb, UAV Drone, Supply Pack
Stay mobile and use your Jump Pack to outmaneuver Illuminate teleporters. The UAV Drone helps track cloaked enemies before they strike.

6. Defensive Squad Support

Primary: AR-32 Pacifier
Secondary: P-2 Peacemaker
Stratagems: Shield Generator, Orbital Barrage, Supply Pack, EMS Mortar
If you’re playing a support role, this build keeps your team alive during heavy waves. The EMS Mortar slows enemies, making it easier to maintain defensive positions.

7. Tech Disruptor Loadout

Primary: LAS-16 Sickle
Secondary: P-19 Redeemer
Stratagems: Orbital EMP Strike, Supply Pack, Eagle Airstrike, Resupply
The EMP Strike disables Illuminate shields and disrupts drones, opening a window for your team to go on the offensive.

8. Close-Quarters Specialist

Primary: SG-8S Slugger
Secondary: LAS-7 Dagger
Stratagems: Guard Dog, Shield Generator, Orbital Precision Strike, Supply Pack
Illuminate forces often teleport in close proximity—this loadout allows you to respond instantly with devastating shotgun blasts and a guard drone for extra cover.

9. Orbital Dominator

Primary: AR-23P Liberator Penetrator
Secondary: P-4 Senator
Stratagems: Orbital Railcannon Strike, Orbital Laser, Supply Pack, Reinforce
This setup emphasizes coordinated orbital strikes to wipe out clusters of enemies. Use the Penetrator for steady, precise mid-range engagements.

10. Anti-Drone Expert

Primary: LAS-98 Laser Cannon
Secondary: P-19 Redeemer
Stratagems: Eagle Strafing Run, Resupply, Shield Generator, Orbital Airburst
Drones can be some of the most annoying enemies in Illuminate missions. The Laser Cannon and Airburst combo helps clear them efficiently before they swarm your squad.

11. Full Support Engineer

Primary: ARC-12 Blitzer
Secondary: P-2 Peacemaker
Stratagems: Supply Pack, Repair Tool, Shield Generator, Orbital Smoke Strike
This loadout is all about keeping your team in the fight. The Blitzer provides crowd control while your repair tool and shield support frontline units.

The Illuminate can be some of the most unpredictable foes in Helldivers 2, but with the right loadouts and solid coordination, even their advanced technology won’t save them. Adapt your gear based on the mission type and terrain to maximize efficiency.

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