How can I add side skirts?

[OrnluWolfjarl]

I have researched side skirts a couple times, but for the life of me, can't figure out how to install them on my models. They don't seem to appear on the Design dialogues asking you what parts you want. Am I doing something bad? Is it something that can only be used for specific tanks? I've tried with Light and Medium tanks

[BlueTemplar]

They automatically get added on new* tank models.

*New being either new model line or upgrade of an existing model line.
Last, but not least : it looks like that you need to have researched the tech *before* you start (re)designing the model : if you complete the tech research *while* the model is being (re)designed, you won't have them added to the new model once the (re)design completes.

[zgrssd]

Next time you start a new line or make a new version of existing gear, they are added for free.
The same is true for most of the "Optimisation" techs and Advanced Sensors.
However it seems that some upgrades like Radiation Filters are entirely passive.

Unfortuantely already fielded tank Units will have to use replacement, to get the new models in and the old ones back to the SHQ where they will have to be scrapped. That one is a whole different matter.

[OrnluWolfjarl]

Alright thanks!

[BlueTemplar]

Hmm, do you really prefer scrapping old tanks just because they lack side skirts (and a "design pass" without a lot of new field testing) ?

I guess the issue is that old models don't contribute to field testing any more once a new model upgrade is out ?

Or was this just an example ?

[newageofpower]

Yep.

I prefer field testing to at least 80%, preferably over 90%, but if you find yourself in an early game war against a hostile major, you might need every edge possible. In that case I would order a new iteration whenever it would make a significant difference; i.e. early game obtaining Combat Armor is a gigantic advantage over unarmored opponents.

I usually relegate second line vehicles to bullying Minors, local Xenofauna and the Free Folk, and if I've removed them from the area I just salvage the tanks for half my investment.

[KarisFraMauro]

Isn't there a point of diminishing returns with field testing? Obviously more is better, but after 70 percent or so it starts getting pretty difficult to increase. Depends on how much fighting you're doing I suppose...

[newageofpower]

Yeah, its a bit like linear tech, but I've gotten to 98 % before. The more dangerous the combat the faster it goes up too, according the manual you get 1 testing point when you hit an opponent and 5 when you get hit.

So when the testing gets near full I start ordering tanks to attack AT guns and RPG troops in jungle and order infantry to assault MGs dug into high mountains.

This kind of wastage probably is only doable against the AI, not recommended for MP.