OBT Forum

I'd like to encourage you to look to BattleMechs for delivering Battle Armor, particularly of the magnetic clamp variety. 


Battle Armor's combat role is to support and supplement the BattleMech on the battlefield.  Ergo, the best way to remain in range to do so is to operate directly from the BattleMech being supported. 

The problem with operating Battle Armor from hovercraft and VTOLs is that the slow, durable nature of the Battle Armor squad is completely at odds with the fast, fragile nature of those transports.  The Battle Armor can do little to nothing to support the hovertank or VTOL in their combat role, and once delivered, neither the hovercraft nor VTOL can stick around to support the battle armor without putting themselves in undo risk.  No matter what model is being used, a hovercraft or VTOL for Battle Armor transport is just a glorified taxi.

A BattleMech & Battle Armor Squad, however, can fight together as a synergized team.  Battle Armor riding a BattleMech provide additional armor and can repel enemy infantry attempting swarm attacks.  Once dismounted, the BattleMech can remain nearby the Battle Armor, both combining their firepower against a single target or allowing the Battle Armor to eliminate minor threats while the BattleMech engages your primary targets.  Unlike hovercraft, the BattleMech can cross any terrain a Battle Armor squad can, and can deliver the BA directly into covering terrain.  Unlike the VTOL, the BattleMech can benefit from the same terrain the BA are deployed into. 

Whenever possible, it is best to make use of BattleMechs for Battle Armor delivery.  dedicated BA transport vehicles should only be used when OmniMechs/Magnetic Clamps are unavailable or to transport the truly massive assault suits which cannot be mechanized.