Quote: (Honda @ 26 Jul. 2009, 19:51 )
Early versions of the TS had the ability, but there were inconsistencies with the core rules and how the TS operated.
When it came time to redesign the TS-basic kit, as a community, it was decided to drop the ability and focus on the air support role. In earlier versions, there were people who used drones + TS, but in the past years, no one has, nor thought that it was important.
Hence it was dropped to reduce the number of special rules.
I have labored several years under 4.x.x rules. I managed to make a reasonable win loss record living with drones and "drone swarms"( I believe the current fashionable name).
I do not understand why 'expendable' drones is such anathema.
If you characterize the Tau as a race that uses technology to gain an edge on the more numerous but sadly primitive races. Drones should be right up there as a difference maker. A smart race would love to be able to manufacture soldiers, off the line into battle. Mechanical soldiers (drones), while not cheap like grots, would of necessity be a wise choice.
Heavy drones w/ ML, complete units of drones and ablative additional drones for units makes a real racial difference that no other race can duplicate. It can form the basis for doctrine of operation.
Briefly, mechanical troopers form the front line trip wire units that delay harass and otherwise slow or channelize the enemy. High command determines the point of concentration and commits the precious living troopers to decisive action against the foe. Following up with maneuver warfare dash to the soft chewy center of the bad guys tootsie pop or a quick regroup to strike elsewhere while additional units of mechanical troopers are sown to cause havoc among the broken enemy.
How does this rant relate to the TS? Here is the second bit of doctrine: close association and cooperation of all units in the Tau military ground , air and space. TS is a strike unit and a drone carrier with the ability and survivability to deploy drones to the rear of enemies. Air strike followed by almost instantaneous air drop, scary huh?
It has been pointed out to me that I expect "too much reality" perhaps so. In the absence of a defined tau doctrine give it a thought.
Bear
