This.
And because MIC needs something other than MOAR SHIP SPAM to make it appealing as a "subfaction that is split via research in midgame". While I understand that it's kinda odd to have an DEW on a non-ONI ship, we can make a reason for it. Otherwise, we'd have people always choosing ONI. I know I'd rather have shields and other cool benefits rather than just MOAR SHIPS
Hmm... late game buffs... late game... I KNOW! NOVA BOM-
Ah.
Shit.
Better Hull? Or else seriously just give MIC some exclusive ships. You want that Orion? Tough. No shields for you.
Otherwise late game ideas are a bit tricky when it isn't as you say just the spam fest.