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Hidden Factor Squadron

Role: Ambush - Frontline

This is a hybrid ambush/frontline fleet consisting of the classic 'Torpcello' Ambush/Hunter-Killer build that excels in close quarter combat, and a cheap 450mm casemated gun Liner for long-range frontline fire support. Best used as a support element in 5v5 matches.

The best tactics for the Torpcello is to evade detection until the last minute, even better during feigned retreat to draw enemy capital ships to overextend, then unleash the deadly torpedoes at the unsuspecting enemies (weapons control mode HOLD can be used to great effect here). It can take out lone Solomon, Axford pair, or Vauxhall trio with ease. However, ally fire support is strongly recommended against denser concentration of enemies. Be economical when expending your torpedoes, as they are a limited resource, and an empty Torpcello cannot respond to threats other than bow tanking.

Note: The Torpcello does not have enough power to run all systems simultaneously. It is important that you manage your power consumption during combat, especially when your point-defense is activated. Set your PDTRT to DEDI on the torpcello at the start of the match to avoid having the illuminator automatically firing on PD prioritized targets and unnecessarily drawing power.

On the other hand, the liner should be played similar to those in Kyanite squadron: Keeping 450mm distance, flank speed between covers while shooting, and reload behind cover. To compensate for its complete absence of hardkill PD, it should stay close to any nearby friendly frontline asset for as much as possible.

Weaknesses: Both ships are vulnerable to cruise missiles, bombers, and beams spams. Furthermore, once the opposition can deduce that the liner does not have any PD, it would be targeted first. Keep the Torpcello well hidden, and the liner tucked in between friendly frontline assets.

The included SGT-315 Letter Opener torpedo is best fired at range 3.6 - 3.8 km, to a maximum of 4.0 km. It has corkscrew terminal maneuver with 3.2G of turn rate to defeat weakened/exposed point defense. Remember to burn through and lock the contact you want to shoot to defeat jamming, as this torpedo is Command (CMD) guided.

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Based on my other Torpcello build Hidden Blade Squadron.

Big thanks to iriS.exe for introducing me to the concept of the torpcello+frontline fleet.

Good luck and have fun! Let me know in the comments if you have any suggestions.


I wrote a guide on my approach to playing this fleet:
https://gtm.steamproxy.vip/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3477772891

• v1.0: File uploaded.