The abundance of ships with (Heavy) Flicker Core system is really one of their stronger points imo and gives them a good edge with their mobility. Honestly, Flicker Core is one of the reasons why I consider the Maelstrom one of the best, if not already due to the immense versatility it gives. It, along with the Hanger bays, means that the Maelstrom always has an answer to everything allowing it to be a very good solo ship. Especially because if you're not currently targeting a ship, you can control your facing post-flicker with the mouse cursor letting you lure and trap cheeky flanker frigates (Which might be true of all "phase jump" systems).
Micro Missiles are also one of the better defensive options available, but that has more to do with AI overestimating any missiles then because they themselves are OP. Similar to the issues with massed fighters.
I believe the only DA Cruiser that mounts any larges is the Gust class cruiser which only has 1. That said if you're also using the "Ships and Weapons Pack" one of the IBBs is from DA which does have a cruiser with 2.
I've never actually used the State Support Beams much, if at all, so I'm glad to hear that they seem to be pretty good. If you haven't yet though I might recommend trying out the Grave HMC and Glowtusk combo on a Haze or Daze class. They do excellent work if your goal is enemy ship suppression and killing.