A step below 'Mechs in the eyes of the general public, armored fighting vehicles
are a vital part of the 45th's organization, providing support and reserve
striking power to enhance the strength of 'Mechs.
Trained in the basics of BattleMech combat as well as armored fighting, a
Pathfinder tank crewman goes through several stages of development, mastering
wheeled and tracked vehicles and then hovertanks. Marksmanship is also
emphasized, and tournaments for tank gunners help maintain skills and pride of
accomplishment off the battlefield.
Heavy support tanks like the
Challenger
class are expected to move into close combat with BattleMechs. Training
simulates combat in cities and rough terrain, as well as situations in which a
tank must close with a 'Mech or be destroyed.
Wheeled vehicles and hovertanks fill a dual role as combat and reconnaissance
forces, sometimes using their high speed and mobility to attack a BattleMech
from behind.
INFANTRY
Pathfinder infantry are taught the value of unit cohesion, cover, and ambush
during a BattleMech attack. Swift, flexible, and highly mobile, the Pathfinder
infantry also receives special training in 'Mech-demolition tactics, surprising
overconfident enemy MechWarriors who expect timid infantry to scatter. Terrain
exploitation is a favorite way for infantry to even up the odds when fighting
BattleMechs. Urban tactics are emphasized, with infantry engaging in hit-and-run
attacks from buildings and rubble. Mountain and forest fighting are two other
significant areas of infantry training.
