improved position

[dpabrams]

What beneifit are these in terms of defense rating? I can find no mention in the literature as to an improved position adding X to the defense rating of a hex. I only find "affording improved cover."

[CapnDarwin]

I will do some digging into the code and see. In most cases it's not a simple +X thing.

[WildCatNL]

Units with a Hold order in an Improved Position get a 'fortified' posture (instead of a dug-in posture), unless the unit is not capable of using it (helicopters, drones).
The 'fortified' posture offers the benefits of a lower (thermal) signature, increased concealment, increased projection against attacks.

The game doesn't add X to the hex's rating for improved positions because the benefits do not universally apply to all units (helicopters and drones hovering above the improved position should not benefit from it).

[dpabrams]

Units with a Hold order in an Improved Position get a 'fortified' posture (instead of a dug-in posture)

Good to know. In a quick search of the manual and primers I did not find an explanation of fortified and dug-in. Am I missing it?

[CapnDarwin]

Thanks for letting us know. I apparently missed putting that in. I will update the 2.1.3 updated version of the Ops Doc with that added to the Combat section.

[dpabrams]

Jim,

In looking at flank/ side/ rear apsect all I find is this "and if the range is one or less then there is a further penalty due to the assumption that more flanking shots are available when at such close range."

What I'm curious about is there an actual facing to the units in relation to each other? I can understand that flank shots are taking into account at zero and one hex range. How would the game factor for a rear shot?

[CapnDarwin]

There is no facing in the game. We assume that the units are smart enough if the enemy is detected to go frontal aspect. If caught by surprise, a target at range may get hit in the flank. At a range of one hex, there is an increased chance of getting a flank attack on a target unit (basically, some of the subunits are assumed to be close enough and in a position where flank shots are possible. In hex, attacks have a better chance to be flank or rear aspect shots. Infantry attacking AFVs have a bonus to these better aspect shots.

[dpabrams]

Elegant and makes complete sense at a 500m scale.