They addressed this in the presentation actually, it's because the parts of the carrack you saw in the demo are done, but there are some rooms that aren't done yet.
Also, stuff gets released when it's ready, even if it has delays, you should know that by now =)
Carrack seems to be a 'better' exploration ship because it mostly has large components where the 600i has medium ones. Looking at weapons though I think the 600i can defend itself better if you're soloing it (cause the carrack only has turrets)
I have no idea how much you are actually joking, but this could very well be a thing. Like a regular event with *topsecret-superhidden* leaderboards.
Melee attacks are already in the game right? If not, close quarter shoot outs sound good.
There's 2 gatling guns on each side on my MIS, the pic is a bit dark but you can see it if you zoom in. (so 2 guns on that side you see total)
/edit
Brighter pic
Anyone know if it's possible to (temporarily) remove the missile racks from the MIS for a cargo run? I got my MIS with this in the back of my head, but I am not sure if it is even going to be possible.