This problem will get better when you advance in the storyline. I noticed that heavier enemy crafts cannnot keep up these crazy maneuvers.
Sometimes i have more problems killng a bunch of corsair legionnaires then BH Hammerheads with Patriots and Crusaders.
The legionnaires always get away from my VHF, while the heavy ones can be followed, their heavy armor isnt helping vs 4 lvl 10 guns.
This leads me to a question: Are light fighters like the tiger worth it? Can they keep up with VHFs?
And to the TS:
The first three missions are doable in the Defender. After that, when youve got access to Liberty space, you can find a cheapish VHF, the Dark angel somewhere around.
Lv 10 Guns arent far away either. this will make things easier.