As you can see in the image, the Meteor Mech at the top left has AI onboard and has a "repair" icon. Yet you can use the "Mantis Slash" ability.
I will try and explain the situation up to this point so that the devs might be able to recreate the glitch.
Game version is Steam v.1.0.20
1. I got Kazaaakpleth from the falling FTL ship.
2. Replaced a guy that was in the Meteor mech with Kazaaakpleth and did a couple of missions.
3. After I completed the island, I sold Kazaaakpleth for rep while he is still in the meteor mech.
4. I went into the final battle with the AI onboard, and I can still use the "Mantis Slash" rather than the usual "Repair"


