While arming one of the most over costed ships with one of the most underused cannons may seem crazy, because frankly it is. Imagine the possibility of getting three uncancelled hits every turn, then making them crits. of course it would require EXTERMELY good piloting on Brath's behalf (most assuredly VI) and presumably something like Vader with Squad leader to assure he gets the actions he needs every turn (or Adv Sensor Fleet officer OGP).

Predator will nearly always work better. Allows him to focus but also modify his rolls. And EU Han or other PS9s will likely still have an advantage if you give him VI because of the Defender's predictability. It will be slightly mitigated by the TIE Mk. 2, but only slightly. He'll probably still just want an Engine Upgrade anyway.