After playing the Heron more, and experimenting with various configurations, I like this ship. Even though it is a dedicated carrier, with benefits from Combat and Technology, a Heron flagship is nimble and can fight on the front lines, or at least use its speed to dictate the terms of engagement. It can go toe-to-toe with frigates and destroyers without any problems. While it can go toe-to-toe with bigger ships, doing so without fighter support is tedious, but we choose the Heron for fighter use, right?
My favorite configuration as a Combat/Technology specialist:
Heron
Weapons: Heavy Blaster, Burst PD Laser x4
Hullmods: Augmented Engines, Integrated Targeting Unit
Capacitors: 5
Vents: 21
Two rearmost mounts left empty. With this configuration, the Heron points its nose at its target, and blasts it with the Heavy Blaster. Though not as efficient as dedicated warships that can fire two or three blasters at once, one blaster will get the job done. Four burst PD lasers that aim forward should take care of most incoming threats, and pile a little more damage to whatever the Heron is blasting. For the uncommon missile threat from behind, either turn the ship, raise the shield at the rear, or deploy drones.
My minor complaints/nitpicking? Costs 9 Logistics to deploy instead of 8. Limited OP (currently works, but it is rough nonetheless), and only 100 crew between minimum and maximum. Not very many replacement pilots unless player has the Making Do perk or another ship with crew to spare.
EDIT - This Heron can solo a Hegemony defense fleet singlehandedly, without fighters. Doing so is slow, but possible. The Heron plays like a high-tech ship while disguised as a midline ship.