I like these ideas Dab...but I am a VHF whore to my own detriment so I might be a bit biased.
Perhaps a little more on the shield regen rate...that is really low...and i think it should take at least a few more VHFs (average players) to take down a battleship. Caps need to retain their fearsomeness so you should be encouraged to get as many of your fighters ace buddies on to help you as you can.