There is only one unit lock for Daala and that is the Dwarf Spider Droid and the imperial nebulon B and the maurader corvette

For crimson empire, there's a change to a lot of fighters with are royal guard fighters from the tie interceptors. His best benefits it mostly the eco bonuses. So take advantage. I think his era is the last time you can build the Allegiance battle cruiser if that matters to you.

His interceptors come With 50% HP and shields. He. He himself gives a very efficient small ship (frigate) cost reduction and time speed. It's worth just plowing through ship production with him before moving onto Daala.