Getting deeper into the Resistance for Dropzone Commander, we come to my next favorite model and unit. the AH-16 Cyclone. This is a helicopter gunship that has some amazing durability, firepower, and is one of the coolest models in the Resistance model range.
Lets take a closer look.
First off the model is quite amazing. The rotary blades of the helicopter are made of a high grade steel, that literally cant be clipped without damaging your clippers. They do come off the sprues just fine without clippers, and because of the steel, I've personally decided not to paint them just to show off the steel blades.
On the gaming table, these attack helicopters unleash a swarm of missiles that can quickly take out large swaths of ground targets. With a movement of 16" and a MF of 12", the Cyclones can quickly get into position to unleash their firepower. With 2 damage points and an armor of 6, the Cyclone can withstand some reaction fire as they move into position.
The primary weapon on the helicopter is a Hornet's Nest Multi-Missile System, which is a barrage 1 weapon system. This means that multiple AH-16s Cyclones can fire over buildings in a barrage where multiple gunships create a larger and further ranged strike. So while the Cyclone costs 60pts, it means that large masses of them are not really reasonable, but I believe right now that 4 of them makes an ideal strike force. This gives you a barrage strike of 30" small blast range, 24" medium blast, and 18" large blast. This is quite large and fast if you consider that its an E10 barrage shot. did I mention that at that level it has a demolisher value of 2?.
Since the Hornet Nest Missile System is a barrage, you dont need line of sight to maintain a solid shot if your scouts have a good sight on your targets. Gun Technicals, and Free Riders will get rid of any penalties for not having a direct line of sight for your Barrage weapons.
So Jump behind a large building, and enjoy the flexibility of being able to strike almost anywhere on the tabletop.
Not only do the Cyclones have a barrage, but each one comes with Beowulf Missiles, one on each wing (pylon) of the gunship. These are limited 2 shots, have a MF of 12" and range of 9" with countermeasures. This provides your Attack Helicopters with maximum destructive firepower.
In the event that the enemy is trying to take you down from infantry at the walls of buildings, you also have a light chaingun to pelt infantry or very light targets.
The AH-16 Cyclone will prove to be a fast moving gunship that can outrange AA reaction fire if coupled in a squad of 4, which can be quite powerful. They are quite capable of getting shots immediately as they enter the tabletop with a long range barrage. Its because of this that 4 of these gunship helicopters can maintain firing every single round of the game (something very few units are capable of). Four gunships with a small blast 30" range and a 12" MF, gives them a 42" threat range for anything on the ground. Bring their battlegroup in last on the first round to take maximum advantage of this ability.
Lastly, do not forget that squads that are placed in readiness do not have to come in the first round of the game if you choose not to. This can bring some of the enemy closer for a better second round surprise shot. (this is a little known and used rule, and most of you will be looking this one up... hint page 21)
I think you find them very useful and in many Resistance lists.
Lastly, do not forget that squads that are placed in readiness do not have to come in the first round of the game if you choose not to. This can bring some of the enemy closer for a better second round surprise shot. (this is a little known and used rule, and most of you will be looking this one up... hint page 21)
I think you find them very useful and in many Resistance lists.
