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Based on the rules and FAQ on power armor, it looks like if I am a Vesk (or another race with 1.5x specialization on unarmed strikes):
I can either make my usual unarmed strike at 1d3 + (Str mod) + (1.5x level specialization) damage.
Or I can make the power armor's unarmed strike at (listed damage dice) + (Str mod + 1x level specialization) damage. (Unless I am somehow not specialized in basic melee weapons.)
In both cases, the Str mod will be that of the armor rather than my own.
If I have Improved Unarmed Strike feat, I can apply its damage dice instead of my own, or the armor's.
In a large or bigger power armor, my arms would be dedicated to operating the armor and not free for an unarmed strike, but I could still make a headbutt or tail slap.
Is this all correct?
Damage
When you make an unarmed melee attack with the powered armor, it deals damage equal to the armor’s listed damage value plus its Strength modifier.
I believe this means that you have to use either the armor or your feat augmented unarmed strike, not a combination of the two. I don't think you could even HAVE a number for improved unarmed strike + the armors unarmed strike, even if you were supposed to be using it.
In a large or bigger power armor, my arms would be dedicated to operating the armor and not free for an unarmed strike, but I could still make a headbutt or tail slap.
Eyup. Its one of those science fantasy things you don't want to think too hard about.