Entrenchments!

[Q-Ball]

Question: Seems like it's not easy to build-up entrenchment levels. Most units do not have organic Engineer units, and even when you have engineers it seems to take awhile to build meaningful entrenchments.

Should the game engine make it easier?

I feel like Level-1 and maybe Level-2 should be able to be dug by anyone; this is basic field fortifications that soldiers with shovels can put together

Yes, for more complex fortifications, you should need Engineers; when you start talking pill boxes, fixed positions, wire, etc.

Thoughts on this?

I think it would help the Republic and slow the operational tempo a bit if Level 1 or 2 Fortifications were quick and easy to build

[RangerJoe]

Question: Seems like it's not easy to build-up entrenchment levels. Most units do not have organic Engineer units, and even when you have engineers it seems to take awhile to build meaningful entrenchments.

Should the game engine make it easier?

I feel like Level-1 and maybe Level-2 should be able to be dug by anyone; this is basic field fortifications that soldiers with shovels can put together

Yes, for more complex fortifications, you should need Engineers; when you start talking pill boxes, fixed positions, wire, etc.

Thoughts on this?

I think it would help the Republic and slow the operational tempo a bit if Level 1 or 2 Fortifications were quick and easy to build

Field fortifications are done in the field by any unit in combat mode or move mode but not actually moving. The units don't need engineers. The bases do need engineers in combat mode to increase the base fortification level, if the engineers are in any other mode then they do not work. Units not in a base lose their fortification if they move, the bases not not lose their fortification level except in combat and some bases have an inherent fortification level.

[rmeckman]

The maximum field fortification level varies from 1 to 3 based on the terrain (manual sect 8.7). In my experience, LCUs fortify much faster in open terrain hexes (clear/plains/cultivated) than other hexes.