So I tried this idea before with Krassis and a Shuttle, but I found that flying large ships in formation threw asteroids was just too punishing. With TIE Defenders I would like to try this

Jonus + Wingman + Seismic Charge

2 x Delta Squadron + HLC

I flew a similar list last night

Jounus and 2 Onyx squadron pilots with HLC

The amount of damage that the HLCs can output is absolutely devastating, and even when Jonus inevitably dies the defenders are both tanky and maneuverable enough to be very threatening. I highly recommend.

This sounds super fun, I'll give it a go. I've found success with hlc defenderso and a mini swarm, but this seems like a great approach.

You're doing it on the wrong side: 2x Blue + 2x Rebel Operative is where it's at... although I admit that Jonus and the Defender's 3 dice on defense are both pretty appealing.