Fluff indeed says the Hero did not manage to achieve Lunar level.
In the base concept regarding hits we take a look at the model.
so Hero & Lunar both cruiser, 45cm turns, 2 shields, speed 20cm, 8 hits. Hero has +1 turret. Hero has boarding halved.
Lunar:
12 batteries @30cm
4 lances @ 30cm
6 torpedoes.
Hero as is:
4 batteries @ 45cm (LFR)
4 lances @ 30cm (2/2 LF /RF)
2 launch bays
6 missiles
@ 30cm The Lunar total WB eqv = 24.
As maximum focus it can do 12.
@ 30cm The Hero total WB eqv = 16.
As maximum focus it can do 16.
Furtermore 4 has a reach of 45cm, albeit in a 1:1 duel the result would be dropped shield at most.
The hero could do a left/right of 2wb + 2l = 8 eqv.
Thus in the thick of fighting, enemies on both sides the Lunar has better firepower.
Now, both have 6 torps/missiles. The missiles edging out the torps.
Now, the asset to the Lunar are the 2 launch bays. This and the maximum focus vs a Lunar makes that the Hero is a better ship.
Now if we bring down lances to 2 the Hero would have:
@ 30cm The Hero total WB eqv = 10.
As maximum focus it can do 10.
Furtermore 4 has a reach of 45cm, albeit in a 1:1 duel the result would be dropped shield at most.
The hero could do a left/right of 2wb + 1l = 5 eqv.
So in firepower it drops below the Lunar. And now it is dependant on its launch bays, where as former these where just an extra bonus.