The thruster placement on the top was to stop it from colliding with the turret.

Full Review at The Fighter Review: Issue 12

Aesthetics: ★★★☆☆

Wider than it is long, the Machine is heavyset and blocky; in its favor, the dark gray and red livery is tasteful enough. But its overall shape makes it look ungainly. The exposed bases of the thrusters also frequently conspire to work against the shaped armor...

Systems: ★★★☆☆

Systematically the Machine is sound. Acceleration is okay, as is thruster balance, and a 1:7k kg gyro ratio gives it a solid feel while turning without being too slow. I was puzzled by some of the choices of thruster placement, though...

Armament: ★★★☆☆

The Machine sports four cannons, two reloadable launchers, and a turret with two cannons and a box launcher - combined with its heavy armor plating and numerous containers, that gives it considerable staying power...

Overall: 3 out of 5 ★.

Ok, now build me a flaing castle that will strike fear into my foes hearts, ie, you