Reverse order in vehicles.

[CRSutton]

This may be an old topic but I have a bit of a problem with the delay in execution when a reverse order is given in a vehicle. I under stand the theory behind the delays for orders as the abstract the delays and communication confusion found in combat units. However, a reverse order in a tank or truck is usually a spot decision made by the driver or tank commander. (Usually in the face of a serious threat). Why is there such a long delay? I would think that the response would be very quick with very little delay at all and would like to see the time delay for this type of order reduced. Perhaps a solution would be to inplement a "bug out" order similar to the withdrawal order for infantry. There should be some penalties assocaited such as greatly reducing the ability of the tank to fire. Any comments?

[David Aitken]

Vehicle crews very often reverse on their own initiative when presented with a serious threat. If you feel the need for an immediate reverse, best issue no orders, and let the crew do what they need to. Ordering them to reverse naturally pre-empts whatever they're doing, and they have to wait a few seconds to process your order instead of deciding the best course of action themselves.

[Username]

This has been brought up before and yes, there should be a "withdraw" for vehicles order.

[Doug Beman]

Yeah, but isn't there a necessary time delay for the gear change? After all, from all my readings changing gears in a WW2 tank is not as simple as putting a gear selector in R.

Or have I been misinformed?

DjB