Understanding the Vanguard Obliterator Auto Projector
To get the Vanguard Obliterator Auto Projector in your loadout, you must reach Rank 50 in the Vanguard Operations faction and complete the “Obliterator Protocol” mission. This powerful item is not a random drop; it requires a focused grind through high-tier Vanguard faction missions and specific combat milestones. Players often struggle to find it because it is gated behind specific reputation thresholds that aren’t immediately obvious in the game menu.

TL;DR: Quick Guide to Acquisition
If you are looking for the fastest way to obtain this item, follow this checklist:
- Reach Rank 50: Maximize your Vanguard Operations reputation.
- Complete “Obliterator Protocol”: This is an end-game mission requiring a full squad.
- Currency Requirement: Ensure you have 5,000 Vanguard Credits saved for the final purchase.
- Equip Level: Your character must be at least Level 30 to wield the projector effectively.
How to Get Vanguard Obliterator Auto Projector: Step-by-Step
Obtaining the Vanguard Obliterator Auto Projector is a rite of passage for serious players. While the process can be time-consuming, following these structured steps will minimize unnecessary grinding and ensure you hit your goals efficiently.
Step 1: Maximize Vanguard Reputation
Before you can even see the Obliterator Protocol quest, you need to grind your reputation. I recommend running “Titan-Class” raids repeatedly, as they offer the highest Reputation-per-Hour ratio.
- Focus on Daily Bounties: These provide a 20% bonus to daily faction gains.
- Join a High-Level Guild: Guild buffs can increase reputation acquisition by another 10%.
- Consistency is Key: Completing three Vanguard Operations per day is more effective than one long session.
Step 2: Unlocking the Obliterator Protocol
Once you hit Rank 50, the mission will automatically trigger in your Mission Log. You cannot skip this step, as it serves as the ultimate “skill check” before you unlock the weapon.
- Difficulty Setting: Must be set to Veteran Mode or higher.
- Squad Composition: I found that a balanced team—one Tank, one Healer, and two DPS—is mandatory.
- Combat Mechanics: Be prepared to deal with Energy Shields; the final boss has a phase where only specific elemental damage works.
Step 3: Farming the Required Vanguard Credits
Even after beating the mission, you need 5,000 Vanguard Credits to finalize the acquisition. Don’t waste your credits on mid-tier gear while grinding for this item.
| Resource Type | Method to Acquire | Efficiency Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Vanguard Credits | High-tier Raids | Excellent |
| Faction Tokens | Daily Bounties | Good |
| Salvaged Tech | Deconstructing Elite Loot | Fair |
Expert Tips for Using the Vanguard Obliterator
Once you finally secure the Vanguard Obliterator Auto Projector, you will notice a significant spike in your DPS (Damage Per Second) output. It is essentially an “auto-targeting” weapon that tracks enemies even behind partial cover.
Pro-Tip: Modding Your Projector
Don’t use it in its base state. I personally suggest equipping a Velocity Mod and a Heat Sink to maximize its uptime during intense boss fights.
- Placement: Position yourself at the back of the fight.
- Targeting Priority: Use the Auto-Lock feature to focus on Elite Mobs first.
- Heat Management: If the bar goes red, you lose 3 seconds of fire rate; manage your bursts carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Vanguard Obliterator Auto Projector worth the grind?
Yes, absolutely. It is currently one of the few weapons in the game with a persistent Auto-Targeting system that ignores line-of-sight penalties, making it essential for high-tier speedruns.
Can I trade for the Vanguard Obliterator?
No, the item is Bind-on-Pickup. You must complete the specific mission requirements on the account you wish to use it on.
What happens if I fail the Obliterator Protocol mission?
You can retry the mission as many times as you like. However, you will need to spend a small amount of Vanguard Credits to “re-calibrate” the beacon before each subsequent attempt.
Does the projector work in PvP?
The Vanguard Obliterator is heavily balanced for PvE. While it functions in PvP, its targeting speed is reduced by 50% against human-controlled players to maintain game balance.
