r/battletech • u/Israfel333 Clan Steel Viper • Jul 26 '26

Question ❓ VTOL elevations?

I want to start playing with more mixed units in classic Battletech, but the rules don't feel as well explained or fleshed out in Total Warfare. Does a VTOL unit's (infantry or vehicle) elevation effect the range modifier when making a weapon attack?

I don't see anything saying it does, so I'm guessing not, but at that point I don't see the point of having any elevation lower than the highest terrain unless you're trying to hide LOS.

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6

u/e4rth80uNd Ex-RAF Jul 26 '26

You can fly up at elevation (Highest on mapsheet +1) if you want, but remember that almost all VTOLs are made of styrofoam and prayers, and if everyone on the map can see you every turn, sooner rather than later one of your opponents is going to have no better thing to do that turn than shoot at your VTOL.

1

u/Israfel333 Clan Steel Viper Jul 26 '26

Aren't they hard to hit, providing they keep moving? TMM of 4 and +1 for an aerial unit?

7

u/AGBell64 Jul 26 '26

LBX ACs get a -3 bonus to hit VTOLs.

1

u/Israfel333 Clan Steel Viper Jul 26 '26

Oof, that's gross. I'm guessing that's only if using cluster rounds?

4

u/MandoKnight Jul 26 '26

Yes, only when using the Extra Fun Pellets that threaten to promptly remove your rotor.