Operation Riverside — Battlefield 3 DLC eGuide - Premium

Conquest

The stage for Operation Riverside is set around a small hydroelectric power station that harnesses the raw power of the river that cuts through this foothill region. Its waters divide the landscape into northern and southern regions. Now, among this deceptively serene landscape, a fierce battle is underway to decide who will control this land. From the onset of the battle, the two opposing forces must rush to capture and control the highest number of the five control points available. Deploying from the hills northeast of the Warehouse (C), the US team has the best chance of capturing and holding the Woods (A) and the Gas Station (B) early on in the match, as long as they remain vigilant at staving off attacks along the riverbanks. From a makeshift base in the southwest, the RU team will quickly be able to capture and maintain a presence at the Outpost (E) and Power Station (D). Centralized on the map and sure to be a heavily contested point is the Warehouse (C). Located at the fork of the river, two narrow bridges provide access to larger vehicles, should they decide to avoid the river itself; this terrain can be difficult for large vehicles to negotiate. Teams should make it a priority to maintain helicopter presence over the Warehouse (C), using it to clear out any hostiles that attempt to approach the control point via the waterways that flank the structure. While conflict is typically fierce at the Warehouse (C), both teams will be fighting for inches using the bridges east of the building to gain access to the control point. Instead, make use of the bridge northwest of the Power Station (D) which can provide both teams with an opportunity to flank their enemy.

US Base

Deploying from the hills to the north of the Gas Station (B), the AH-1Z Viper should immediately proceed toward the southwest to engage the RU team’s helicopters as they deploy. As the AH-1Z Viper proceeds on its search-and-destroy mission, the AH-6J Little Bird should be at full capacity, transporting soldiers to the Warehouse (C) to allow for early capture of this clinch point. After dropping off troops at the Warehouse (C), the AH-6J Little Bird should continue to the southwest and assist the AH-1Z Viper while maintaining a patrol of the Power Station (D) until ground forces arrive. The rocky hill south of the Power Station is vulnerable to attacks by infantry or dirtbikes, but the primary goal of the AH-6J Little Bird here is to stave off the advancement of heavily armored vehicles from the southwest, where the Outpost (E) is likely to be held by RU forces. With the AH-6J Little Bird patrolling the area north of the Outpost (E), the AH-1Z Viper should patrol the road that runs east from the point. Also, while the Woods (A) and Gas Station (B) are tempting to capture immediately due to their proximity to the base, the capture of these points should be the focus of ground forces as they proceed south to engage the enemy. While effective against aircraft, the ASRAD should be patrolling the road that runs east to west across the map, and making use of its unguided rockets to bombard enemies approaching the Power Station and the area to the west of the Warehouse.

RU Base

Considering their relatively close proximity to the RU base, the Outpost (E) and Power Station (D) should be a priority for the dirtbikes, BMP-2M, and the Vodnik AA, all of which should be loaded to capacity. One of the dirtbike passengers should get off at the Outpost (E) to capture it. Moving with the convoy, the dirtbikes and Vodnik AA should proceed northeast to capture the Power Station (D), while the BMP-2M proceeds north from the Outpost (E), crossing the bridge that passes over the river. After crossing, the BMP-2M should proceed east to engage the US team as their ground forces make their way downhill. While the ground forces are moving into position, the Z-11W should take off from the base at full capacity and make its way to the Warehouse (C), which by this time will likely have US dirtbikes present on the building’s east side. Because of this, drop off soldiers near the west entrance of the Warehouse. By now, the MI-28 Havoc should be patrolling the eastern side of the map for enemy helicopters and eliminating any threat on the east side of the Warehouse (C) grounds to provide a distraction as the RU troops enter from the west side of the building to claim the point.

Woods

The Woods (A) is a forested area with little cover, but it does serve a strategic purpose aside from being the easiest point to control for the US team. The control point is atop a rocky hill, and given that the only attack options being by air or flanking, it provides a sniper with a chance to monitor activity at the Gas Station (B). Because it is very close in proximity to the US base, it is not the best option for an RU sniper to play lone wolf when trying to protect the Gas Station (B). Instead, if the RU team can position a squad here, they effectively can cut off any land vehicles that deploy from the US base. This is something that the US team should take into consideration and thus maintain vigilance in controlling the point.

Gas Station

Positioned along the riverbank, the Gas Station (B) is particularly vulnerable to being assaulted from the south. Any troops positioned here are likely to be focused on the chaos of the firefight underway at the Warehouse (C). US forces can effectively defend this location by stationing a sniper along the brush of the rocky outlook around the Woods (A). Vehicles should be wary when approaching or passing by the Gas Station (B), as the brush and high fences west of the building provide a great opportunity for Engineer and Support class soldiers to make use of their explosives arsenal. A good method for clearing the area around the Gas Station is to use explosives or heavy weapons to destroy the gas tanks and nearby white propane tanks to incinerate infantry that are present. Southeast of the Gas Station (B) is a dilapidated wooden bridge that can be used by dirtbikes to cross the river and access the road that passes through the Power Station (D) to the east.

Warehouse

Easily the most contested point on the map, the Warehouse (C) is approachable from all angles. Despite its accessibility, the flag is housed inside the garage on the east side of the building, which means that infantry are most likely to be responsible for the point’s capture. The first team to enter the building should establish a presence on the second floor. Take the high ground and use the catwalks to monitor the flag instead of being on the ground floor, which is susceptible to the weapons of heavily armored vehicles that may try to smoke out a squad holed up inside. Taking that into account, any heavy vehicles are likely to be patrolling and passing the east side of the grounds that are accessible via the bridges that cross the river. Instead of making a direct approach to capture the Warehouse (C), enter the building by way of the west side, which can be approached by crossing the river. When doing so, teams should try to coordinate a helicopter to fire on forces present on the east side of the property. Doing so will provide a distraction while a squad enters from the west to capture the point.

Power Station

Likely to be controlled by the RU team due to its close proximity to their base, the Power Station (D) can provide a clinch point for US forces looking to hold the Warehouse (C). One caveat to this point is that while the road that passes by the Power Station (D) can be travelled by tanks and other heavy vehicles, the concrete walls that flank it make turning difficult, leaving the rear of the vehicle exposed and vulnerable to C4 attack. For the team defending this point, they should be setting mines at each end of the Power Station (D), forcing larger vehicles to stop and leaving them vulnerable to attack. To the southeast of the control point are some blue shipping containers stacked atop one another. These containers provide good cover to initiate an ambush on forces entering the area.

Outpost

The Outpost (E) is similar in strategic significance to the Woods (A). More than likely, this point will be controlled by the RU team throughout the course of a match. From here, the road heading east can be used to flank US forces by following it across the river and bombarding US forces as they deploy from the north. Now, for the US team looking to take control of this point, coming from the road that runs north from the Outpost (E) is sure to be met with heavy resistance without air support. Instead, the US team should opt to approach from the east to capture this point. As for maintaining control of this area, the rocky ridge to the north provides a great lookout spot, and soldiers on this elevated position still have some room to avoid enemy fire. It is best to make use of traps like claymores and mines in this area to deter hostiles, instead of using heavily armored vehicles, as the point is relatively out of the way from the Warehouse (C) and Power Station (D), where most of the conflict will take place.

Conquest 64

The Conquest 64 version of the Operation Riverside map is identical to its Conquest counterpart—with two exceptions: Each team begins the match with a tank and an additional dirtbike, which is accessible from their deployment site. From the onset of the battle, the two opposing forces must rush to capture and control the highest number of the five control points available. Deploying from the hills northeast of the Warehouse (C), the US team has the best chance of capturing and holding the Woods (A) and the Gas Station (B) early on in the match, as long as they remain vigilant at staving off attacks along the riverbanks. From a makeshift base in the southwest, the RU team will quickly be able to capture and maintain a presence at the Outpost (E) and Power Station (D). Centralized on the map and sure to be a heavily contested point is the Warehouse (C). Located at the fork of the river, two narrow bridges provide access to larger vehicles, should they decide to avoid the river itself, whose terrain can be difficult to negotiate large vehicles through. Teams should make it a priority to maintain helicopter presence over the Warehouse (C), using it to clear out any hostiles that attempt to approach the control point via the waterways that flank the structure. While conflict is typically fierce at the Warehouse (C), both teams will be fighting for inches using the bridges east of the building to gain access to the control point. Instead, make use of the bridge northwest of the Power Station (D), which can provide both teams with an opportunity to flank their enemy.

US Base

Deploying from the hills to the north of the Gas Station (B), the AH-1Z Viper should immediately proceed toward the southwest to engage the RU team’s helicopters as they deploy. As the AH-1Z Viper proceeds on its search-and-destroy mission, the AH-6J Little Bird should be at full capacity, transporting soldiers to the Warehouse (C) to allow for early capture of this clinch point. After dropping off troops at the Warehouse (C), the AH-6J Little Bird should continue to the southwest and assist the AH-1Z Viper while maintaining a patrol of the Power Station (D) until ground forces arrive. The rocky hill south of the Power Station is vulnerable to attacks by infantry or dirtbikes, but the primary goal of the AH-6J Little Bird here is to stave off the advancement of heavily armored vehicles from the southwest, where the Outpost (E) is likely to be held by RU forces. With the AH-6J Little Bird patrolling the area north of the Outpost (E), the AH-1Z Viper should patrol the road that runs east from the point. Also, while the Woods (A) and Gas Station (B) are tempting to capture immediately due to their proximity to the base, the capture of these points should be the focus of ground forces as they proceed south to engage the enemy. While effective against aircraft, the ASRAD should be patrolling the road that runs east to west across the map and making use of its unguided rockets to bombard enemies approaching the Power Station and the area to the west of the Warehouse.

RU Base

Considering their relatively close proximity to the RU base, the Outpost (E) and Power Station (D) should be a priority for the dirtbikes, BMP-2M, and the Vodnik AA, all of which should be loaded to capacity. One of the dirtbike passengers should get off at the Outpost (E) to capture it. Moving with the convoy, the dirtbikes and Vodnik AA should proceed northeast to capture the Power Station (D), while the BMP-2M proceeds north from the Outpost (E) and crosses the bridge that passes over the river. After crossing, the BMP-2M should proceed east to engage the US team as their ground forces make their way downhill. While the ground forces are moving into position, the Z-11W should take off from the base at full capacity and make its way to the Warehouse (C), which by this time will likely have US dirtbikes present on the building’s east side. Because of this, drop off soldiers near the west entrance of the warehouse. By now, the MI-28 Havoc should be patrolling the eastern side of the map for enemy helicopters and eliminating any threat on the east side of the Warehouse (C) grounds to provide a distraction as the RU troops enter from the west side of the building to claim the point.

Woods

The Woods (A) is a forested area with little cover, but it does serve a strategic purpose aside from being the easiest point to control for the US team. The control point is atop a rocky hill, and given that the only attack options are by air or flanking, it provides sniper with a chance to monitor activity at the Gas Station (B). Because it is very close in proximity to the US base, it is not the best option for an RU sniper to play lone wolf when trying to protect the Gas Station (B). Instead, if the RU team can position a squad here, they effectively can cut off any land vehicles that deploy from the US base. This is something that the US team should take into consideration and thus maintain vigilance in controlling the point.

Gas Station

Warehouse

Power Station

Likely to be controlled by the RU team due to its close proximity to their base, the Power Station (D) can provide a clinch point for US forces looking to hold the Warehouse (C). One caveat to this point is that while the road that passes between the Power Station (D) can be travelled by tanks and other heavy vehicles, the concrete walls that flank it make turning difficult, leaving the rear of the vehicle exposed and vulnerable to C4 attack. For the team defending this point, they should be setting mines at each end of the Power Station (D), forcing larger vehicles to stop and leaving them vulnerable to attack. To the southeast of the control point are some blue shipping containers stacked atop one another. These containers provide good cover to initiate an ambush on forces entering the area.

Outpost

Capture the Flag

During Capture the Flag on Operation Riverside, the map nearly resembles its Conquest counterpart. The only exception is that the US team deploys from the Outpost, with their flag being to the north of the Outpost, due west of the Power Station. The RU team, on the other hand, deploys near the Woods and their flag is located slightly south, at the Gas Station. This map offers plenty of opportunities to flank the enemy and effectively get the drop on them. Instead of an entire team capturing their enemy’s flag through brute force and speed, a squad and an anti-aircraft vehicle—preferably the ASRAD or Vodnik AA—should remain at their respective flags to stave off any threat posed by the opposing team’s helicopter. While the bridge to the northwest of the map can be used as a thoroughfare between the two bases, it is likely to be loaded with mines. The same might be true of the road that connects the Warehouse with the Power Station. In this case, the best option would be to negotiate the river by dirtbike, as these swift vehicles can negotiate the riverbank terrain with ease. Aside from the vehicles provided at each of the team’s respective bases, there are also two dirtbikes located on the east side of the Warehouse, which is conveniently centralized on the map.

US Base

Positioned in the southwest end of the map, the US team’s flag is slightly west of the Power Station. This position is open to attack from four fronts, the bridge northwest of the flag, the riverbank to the north that provides a ramp for escape, the road that runs east of the Power Station and through the Warehouse area, and the road south that passes by the Outpost and runs east along the southern edge of the map and leads to a fallen bridge that can be used to cross to and from the Gas Station to the north. Given the accessibility of these points, they are best guarded through the use of explosives such as mines or claymores, which due to their proximity detonators do not require direct monitoring. All of these points can also be used to attack the RU base located at the Gas Station, but the best method would be the roads that run east and south from the US base. Both of these can access the riverbank immediately south of the Gas Station, and from this point, can approach the RU flag before the opposing team knows what hit them.

RU Base

Deploying from the northwest near the Woods, the RU team’s flag is situated at the Gas Station. While more exposed to attack than the US base to the southwest, the hills north of the Gas Station provide ample opportunity to monitor the flag and the surrounding area for potential attackers. One of the best opportunities for a trap would be to place C4 on the gas pumps. When an enemy or their vehicle approaches the flag, detonating the charge will result in a large explosion, clearing the flag area of hostiles. When making an attack on the US flag, be sure to make use of the dirtbikes to cross the fallen bridge to the southeast, as the connecting road provides an opportunity to approach the US flag from the blind side to the south. Avoid passing through the Warehouse area, as this is likely to be a clinch point that will be rife with resistance. The same can be said of the road running west from the Gas Station, which should be patrolled to stave off heavy armored vehicles as they attempt their approach from this route.

Rush

The Rush battle on Operation Riverside begins with a heated battle in the hills to the northwest. The varied terrain and flanking opportunities presented on this map ensure that both teams are in for a fierce battle, as they fight to gain inches across this sprawling landscape. Each team will retain access to a scout helicopter throughout the course of the battle, and efficient use of these aircraft can quickly turn the tide. Throughout the conflict, the RU team will be limited in their vehicle resources, a fact that the US team is sure to exploit. Given the terrain, the RU team can exploit the hillsides to gain an advantage, but once again, they will have to ensure that their helicopter keeps an eye on the location of the US team’s vehicles. Both teams can benefit from engineers that are well-versed in the use of anti-aircraft rockets to keep the sky clear of prying eyes that can alert the enemy to their positions.

Zone 1: Woods

US Deployment

From the moment of deployment, the US team has an immediate advantage. Located uphill and northeast of the RU team with two dirtbikes, the US team can quickly proceed south and capture the two M-COMs that are located among the wooded hillside. By this time, the AH-6J Little Bird should be in the air to hold back RU soldiers that are attempting their hike uphill to guard the M-COMs. The speed of the dirtbikes means that a passenger can be dropped off at the M-COMs to secure them, while the dirtbike continues downhill to approach from behind the RU soldiers that are encroaching upon the M-COM sites. The US team should take note that the RU forces will be deploying closer to the position of M-COM Station A and are likely to meet heavier resistance at this location. Attacking M-COM Station B first will splinter the RU forces, though, as they will be dividing their forces to manage the onslaught. Use this opportunity to bombard the hillside with the AH-6J Little Bird and force the RU team to take cover under suppression.

RU Deployment

From the onset of the battle, the RU team is at a disadvantage. The only deployment vehicles afforded the team at this stage in the battle is the Z-11W, which deploys from the southwest corner of the map. Although the deployment site is near the M-COM stations, the team would benefit from focusing its infantry units on M-COM Station A, placing mines or claymores early on to provide defense to the site. Once the Z-11W is within range, the helicopter should focus its attention on protecting M-COM Station B, which is slightly northwest of M-COM Station A. The helicopter should be focusing its fire on M-COM Station B to suppress enemy units that are attempting to destroy it. Now, while this is going on, the RU team should make its engineers take down the US team’s helicopter and clear the sky for their Z-11W to police the area. While it’s risky to focus all of the infantry’s attention on M-COM Station A, remember that only one M-COM is needed to hold back the enemy, and it’s not worth having the team spread thin between both objectives and possibly overwhelmed this early in the round.

M-COM Station A

M-COM Station A is located in the Woods alongside the east path. This area is heavily concealed by trees, making it difficult to see from the air. US attackers will be likely to attack this station first though, considering that it is a straight shot from their deployment. Given the lack of cover to both teams, the RU defenders will benefit from taking elevated positions atop the rocks that flank this area, as well as make use of claymores to control the site and destroy the hopes of any would–be attackers that enter the area. With this in mind, the US team should not be careless in approaching this area, as it becomes a killing field that strips away tickets quickly.

M-COM Station B

M-COM Station B is located northwest of M-COM Station A. Both teams can benefit by allowing an experienced helicopter pilot to patrol and monitor the road on which M-COM Station B is situated for hostiles. Considering the slight uphill climb to access the area, RU defenders will be accessing this area from the southwest. This can be dangerous for US attackers that are attempting to plant a charge, as they are left vulnerable to fire at both M-COM Station A and B from these elevated positions. Defenders should make use of grenades and explosives when staving off attacks to this site, as the only option to take cover here is to fall back. For serious attackers though, the AH-6J Little Bird can be a powerful asset for controlling the approach of defenders making their way uphill. T-UGS motion sensors can benefit both teams greatly here, as the rocky hillside can be difficult to monitor via sight lines.

Zone 2: Gas Station

US Deployment

Deploying from the Woods northeast of the Gas Station, the US team should expect heavy resistance as they make their way downhill. Because M-COM Station A is the most exposed, the attackers should position their LAV-25 to the east of the Gas Station to provide suppressive fire for dirtbikes to gain quick access to the area and secure the charge. Expect crafty defenders to attempt to guard the M-COM Stations from the south, as the river provides a direct path to take a position from which to snipe at oncoming attackers that are making their approach from the northern hills. Keeping this in mind, positioning recon soldiers on the hills can provide cover for infantry as they attempt to enter the Gas Station itself and plant the charge on M-COM Station B, which is located inside the Gas Station itself.

RU Deployment

Deploying from the west, the RU team has a chance to defend the M-COM Stations at the Gas Station from the nearby 9M133 Kornet Launcher. While effective against large vehicles, it can also be used to control the hillside that the attackers will be approaching from. Instead of defending the location from the road itself, enter through the south side of the Gas Station and make use of T-UGS motion sensors to monitor activity near M-COM Station A, which is east of the station and exposed. Not only will placing a T-UGS near the M-COM provide coverage of this exposed station, but it will also provide a warning that attackers are attempting to cross the Gas Station pump area to plant a charge on M-COM Station B. Due to its concealment within the building, M-COM Station B can be effectively guarded through the use of claymores; just be sure to plant one near the car inside of the Gas Station to create a larger explosion to kill attackers that may be grouping inside.

M-COM Station A

M-COM Station A is located to the east of the Gas Station near a yellow dumpster. This M-COM Station is particularly open to assault given the fencing that conceals it from the Gas Station itself. Attackers should not take it for granted that this will be an easy plant and destroy, though, as the wooden fence providing concealment is likely to be destroyed quickly by the BMP-2M and their own LAV-25 as cannon fire rips through the area. Defenders will benefit from placing a T-UGS motion sensor near the area and approaching from the river to the south. Attackers can effectively clear the area from the rocky hills to the north, as well as spot defenders camping nearby. If the fence has been torn down, defenders can also use the relative safety of the south gas station wall to fire on attackers approaching the area.

M-COM Station B

Located inside of the Gas Station, M-COM Station B is a difficult one to attack to say the least. Attackers would benefit from using the LAV-25 to provide suppressive fire on the site as their infantry close in on the building itself. Defenders should expect dirtbike riding attackers to try to attempt to enter the Gas Station building on their vehicle at breakneck speeds. Should attackers attempt brute-force methods like this, placing mines near the entrance to the building can cut these attacks short. Attackers should keep in mind that keeping their LAV-25 on the road will leave it vulnerable to attacks from the 9M133 Kornet Launcher on the north side of the building. To prevent infantry resistance, attackers would be wise to make use of recon soldiers positioned on the rocky hillside to snipe defenders that approach the front side of the building. Defenders should keep this tactic in mind when coming out into the open around the Gas Station.

Zone 3: Warehouse

US Deployment

At this stage of the battle, the US team deploys from the Gas Station. The M-COM Stations are located within the gated compound of the Warehouse to the southwest. It is best to allow the LAV-25 to spearhead the attack into the compound, as long as the bridge is not loaded with mines. Infantry units should cross the river and approach from the southern tip of the island the Warehouse is situated upon. Entry from this area provides an opportunity to place a charge on the relatively exposed M-COM Station A, but keep in mind that defenders will be inside the Warehouse near M-COM Station B and will be fiercely guarding the area from afar. Make use of the AH-6J Little Bird to provide suppressive fire through the large Warehouse door to prevent being accosted by defenders while securing this close-quarter-combat-prone area.

RU Deployment

Deploying from the north side of the warehouse, the RU team can be at a slight disadvantage if they do not proceed to the south end of the Warehouse in a timely manner. To quickly establish a presence, the BMP-2M should approach the Warehouse and begin providing suppressive fire from the southern Warehouse gate to ensure that no attackers gain entry to the Warehouse and compromise M-COM Station B. As infantry units make their way through the Warehouse, the Z-11W should enter the airspace and provide cover fire to prevent the enemy from crossing the bridge from the north. Once defenders have made their way to the east side of the Warehouse, infantry should maintain a position from within the building, engaging hostiles as they enter the large hangar area. From this vantage point, M-COM Station A can be protected as well, given its relatively exposed position.

M-COM Station A

M-COM Station A, located within the lot on the east side of the Warehouse, is relatively exposed—aside from the white truck parked near it. For attackers, this truck provides little to no reprieve from the bombardment they can expect from the defenders’ BMP-2M, and infantry are sure to post up within the Warehouse itself. Attackers should approach the M-COM from the south, with squad members providing suppressive fire as one teammate engages in planting the charge on the M-COM itself. Defenders should take advantage of this vulnerable M-COM and pick off attackers as they approach to plant a charge. Critical to defending this station is preventing the enemy IFV from entering the Warehouse lot, as the attackers will be able to use the vehicle as cover to attack the M-COM.

M-COM Station B

Because M-COM Station B is located within the Warehouse hangar it poses a bit of risk for attackers engaging the objective. They should expect heavy resistance from defenders entrenched within the hangar, and expect to be flanked by hostiles that have taken position on the catwalks overlooking the M-COM. Defenders should keep in mind that attackers may try to approach from behind them by making use of the stairs located within the server room to the west. So, should they attempt to take a defensive position on the high ground, planting claymores at the entrances to the hangar along the catwalk is a very useful defensive strategy. For the overzealous attacker, if the LAV-25 can successfully enter the hangar, it can quickly overwhelm the defenders within this small space. Of course, the defenders can also swarm the vulnerable IFV and destroy it through the use of explosives or well–placed mines.

Zone 4: Power Station

US Deployment

Deploying from the Warehouse, the US team has a straight path that runs through the Power Station and the lot west of it. Both of these areas have an M-COM Station to attack, but expect such a direct approach to be met with heavy resistance. Continuing south from the Warehouse is a road that runs to the west and approaches the M-COMs from the rear. The only downside to this approach is that it runs right through the RU team’s deployment area. Dividing the US team’s forces to attack directly from the Power Station and sending some to the south can provide the opportunity to sneak up on the RU team by using the rocky hill north of the Outpost area. Once in this elevated position, the RU team will be forced to pull back from the Power Station itself and retreat to the lot where M-COM Station B is or sustain heavy losses. Once M-COM Station A has be successfully destroyed, the US team should focus the attention of the AH-6J Little Bird to policing the area around M-COM Station B, allowing attackers to plant a charge.

RU Deployment

Making their approach south from the Outpost area, the RU team will benefit to have the Z-11W providing cover over the Power Station, where M-COM Station A is located, until infantry can arrive on site. If the attacker’s IFV has a chance to break through the Power Station area and approach the lot where M-COM Station B is located, this point of the battle can quickly be handed over to the US team. One benefit that the RU team has here is the BMP-2M, which if positioned near M-COM Station B can provide suppressive fire toward the Power Station and the southern ridge, should the US team attempt to exploit this area and the power transformers here for cover. To raise a successful defense here, the deployment of mines and claymores is definitely necessary to put a stop to the rush of US forces through the Power Station and the road to the south which provides US forces with an opportunity to flank from the Outpost.

M-COM Station A

Located on the north side of the Power Station, M-COM Station A is positioned to be attacked from the river and the road leading from the Warehouse. One disadvantage to an IFV crossing through by way of this road is that once within the channel between the two halves of the Power Station, it is difficult to turn around or make a quick escape, leaving any vehicle susceptible to C4 attack or other explosives. Dirtbikes on the other hand, provide the attackers with a swift platform to drop off soldiers and proceed to M-COM Station B, which is to the west of the Power Station. Defenders should focus on taking position on top of the ridge to the south, which provides them with an elevated position to monitor the approach of attackers. Placement of mines on the western end of the Power Station is useful in preventing any kind of vehicle from safely proceeding through the narrow channel as well. Attackers also can make an easy path by breaking through the chain link on the east side of the Power Station, as opposed to entering the channel and making their way up the stairway, which is particularly vulnerable to sniper fire.

M-COM Station B

M-COM Station B, positioned due west of the Power Station, is relatively exposed near some large pipes and a small building. Attackers, while able to approach the site from the east, will find less resistance when approaching from the north via the river. Defenders should make use of the Z-11W to patrol the bridge to the northwest and the river, as these areas are particularly vulnerable to a dirtbike assault. One tactic that defenders could implement is to use the BMP-2M to destroy the nearby building and prevent cover for enemies that approach the site, but this also eliminates the cover for allies as well. Defenders can also use the ridge to the south as a position for snipers to maintain a sight line to the objective, spotting attackers for their team as they approach the M-COM.

Zone 5: Outpost

US Deployment

Deploying from the Power Station, this last stage of the battle can be won by overwhelming the enemy through the road running south to the Outpost, but at the risk of a high amount of casualties that will deplete tickets quickly. While this is an effective tactic against an RU team with lack of experience, expect a more skilled team to maintain a strong defense at this point in the battle. The AH-6J Little Bird should be used to eliminate any threats that take position along the ridge south of the deployment area, clearing the path for an assault by way of this ridge. Another point of attack should be the road that runs south from the Warehouse. Although a bit of doubling-back is needed to access this road, dirtbikes can quickly make it to this point and engage the enemy from the east, where they likely have turned a blind eye.

RU Deployment

At this point of the battle, holding back the attackers at all costs is imperative. With the M-COM Stations positioned relatively close to each other, guarding them is easily accomplished by making use of the Z-11W, which can maintain distance while gunning down any opposition that approaches the objectives. Without an IFV, though, the battle will be held by infantry units. Early placement of claymores near the objectives can help push back forces that approach them as well. Defenders should be careful to watch the ridge to the north of the Outpost as well as the road to the east, should enemy units attempt to get the jump on them. The first M-COM to be attacked will likely be M-COM Station B, given its position inside the Outpost building, which can be approached from the north relatively undetected. Be sure that this area is fortified with claymores to prevent an unwelcome surprise, should an attacking squad take hold here.

M-COM Station A

Located between containers under an aluminum shelter, M-COM Station A is particularly vulnerable to attack from the east by way of the road. Attackers looking to gain the advantage by taking this approach should be aware of the position of the RU team’s helicopter, which can easily observe them and pose an immediate threat given the area’s exposure. Defenders can effectively protect the site through the use of claymores near the station, as attackers approaching the station to arm a charge will be under heavy fire when doing so. The greatest danger to the defending team here is attackers that are making their approach by way of the ridge to the north, as they will be concealed by the large building to the west and the containers around where the M-COM Station is positioned. One good tactic that attackers can use here is to be dropped off by a dirtbike as the driver continues onward, as most defenders are likely to not notice the dropped of passenger and will attempt to stop the dirtbike itself.

M-COM Station B

Set within the building at the Outpost, M-COM Station B is not an easily accessible objective. For attackers, the difficulty in approaching this objective will be that although the north side of the building offers cover but if approaching the door on the east side, they can expect defenders to be on guard inside of the structure. Attackers looking to enter the building to plant a charge would be wise to use grenades to clear the room prior to entry, as well as making use of the AH-6J Little Bird to provide cover fire as squads attempt to attack the objective. Defenders should make use of the tight quarters where the M-COM is housed by using claymores, as well as grenades to defend the objective without having to engage in a direct firefight. Another advantage that defenders can make use of is the rocky ridge to the south of the outpost, where snipers can effectively cover the M-COM Station, making the attackers’ approach difficult.

Squad Rush

Taking place at the Gas Station and the Woods north of there, this Squad Rush battle will test both teams’ abilities to flank and control the area surrounding the objectives, which are exposed to attack within both zones of conflict. Defenders will benefit from making use of claymores to guard the objectives, and implementing T-UGS sensors to warn of attackers that may be attempting to flank their position. During the first phase of this battle, attackers will find it useful to implement a MAV to oversee the combat area while they approach the objective from multiple angles, thereby spreading the defenders thin in the process.

Zone 1

Positioned on the south side of the Gas Station, the first objective is in the open and exposed. This makes successful planting of a charge difficult for attackers that expect to simply run up to it. Defenders will be camping on the rocky hill to the southwest, picking off attackers as they approach. Deployment of a MAV can be helpful to both teams here, as an overview of the objective is useful, considering the area’s relatively open terrain. When attacking, approach from the west side of the building and the south fence line, because an approach from the north will be met with resistance from the defenders that deploy to the east and take position atop the hills to the north. Defenders should take advantage of the position of the M-COM Station and fire upon attackers from the east fence line, which provides an ideal sight line for picking off attackers attempting to arm the objective.

Zone 2

Nestled against a wooden shack on the hillside north of the Gas Station, attackers approaching the objective from the road should expect heavy resistance from defenders that have taken positions in the hills. When attacking, attempts on the objective should be made by proceeding uphill west of the objective and then moving south to descend upon the objective. Defenders looking to hold back the attacking squad would benefit by taking position atop the rocky ledge to the southwest of the objective and sniping attackers as they approach it. If the attacking team does successfully make their way north and attack the objective from this angle, defenders should expect an uphill battle as they attempt to reclaim control of the hill. Deployment of a MAV can prevent this from happening because it would allow an overview of attacker positions.

Air Superiority

In this game mode, the action takes place in the skies over Operation Riverside. With both teams only able to deploy into aircraft already in flight, as well as being unable to eject from the aircraft, combat will never take place on the ground. Thus, making use of the fire extinguisher can prevent undue deaths by repairing the craft while in the air. If you opt to not equip a fire extinguisher, expect to have difficulty staying airborne. These battles center around the capture of control points that are in the form of white airships aloft within the skies at differing elevations. Successful combat will involve the team working as a unit, providing air cover for one another. To assist in covering the backs of your fellow airmen, your loadout should include air radar, which aids in the monitoring of enemy positions, including those that may be approaching from the rear. Instead of trying to hold all three of the control points, an efficient strategy is to focus on two of the control points as a team. This is all that is needed to ensure victory and, at the same time, will prevent units from being spread too thin, where they can be picked off with ease.

Jet Unlock Progression

Name	Loadout Slot	Points	Description
IR Flares	Gadget	300	Infrared flare launchers that when launched will distract incoming missiles and cause them to miss their locked target.
Heat Seekers	Weapon	700	Heat-seeking missiles launched by the pilot that lock on to and track enemy aircraft.
Stealth	Upgrade	1,500	Engine tuning and fuselage coating materials disguise your vehicle’s infrared signature, thereby increasing enemy locking and tracking difficulty and decreasing the time you are revealed to the enemy when spotted.
Belt Speed	Upgrade	2,700	An enhanced mechanism that decreases the minimum time between firing bursts with your main weapon.
Proximity Scan	Upgrade	4,200	External sensors detect and reveal enemy units on your minimap.
Rocket Pods	Weapon	6,200	A set of unguided FFAR Rocket Pods mounted under the wings.
Air Radar	Upgrade	8,600	The range of your minimap increases greatly and reveals all friendly and enemy aircraft.
Extinguisher	Gadget	11,600	A controlled air pressure release in the engine compartment will extinguish engine fires when activated, helping a disabled aircraft return to normal operation and recover from damage.
Below Radar	Upgrade	15,000	When flying at low altitudes, your heat signature is decreased, hiding you from enemy radar and preventing enemy air-to-air missile systems from locking on to you.
Maintenance	Upgrade	19,000	Preventative maintenance procedures improve your vehicles recovery from damage.
Guided Missile	Weapon	24,000	Laser-guided missiles launched by the pilot which lock on to and track enemy land vehicles and can acquire laser-designated targets even if they are out of line of sight.
Beam Scanning	Upgrade	29,000	A computer upgrade for advanced weapon systems that helps you lock on to enemy targets faster when using heat-seeking or laser-guided missiles.
ECM Jammer	Gadget	35,000	Electronic countermeasures including chaff launchers and deceptive transmitters prevent your aircraft from being locked on to by enemy weapon systems for a short time when activated.

Squad Deathmatch

In this game mode, the combat is situated around the Power Station and the Outpost area to the southwest. At random locations, a single BMP-2M deploys into the combat area. This vehicle is well suited to patrol through the lot west of the Power Station and the Outpost area, but it is especially vulnerable to attack when passing through the Power Station itself. The high walls that flank the road through the Power Station mean that the IFV cannot turn easily between them. This Power Station provides plenty of opportunity for close-quarters battles, but the labyrinth of power transformers here also means that being trapped by multiple hostiles is a possibility. If your squad is having difficulty capitalizing on these intense firefights, taking position along the ridge north of the Outpost can give a high-ground advantage on enemies as they pass to and from the Power Station. Don’t forget to place mines at the entrance to the Power Station as well, since an enemy speeding through the combat zone in an IFV can pose a particularly real threat to your land-based squad.

Team Deathmatch

Like its counterpart, Team Deathmatch focuses its frantic combat to the confines of a small area of the map. This area is located within and immediately surrounding the Warehouse. While the area outside of the Warehouse is a likely place to catch stray soldiers in your sights as they run to and fro, the principal area of combat will be the west side of the Warehouse interior. With its multiple catwalks and server racks, it features plenty of opportunities to be concealed and get the jump on the enemy. Just be sure to keep an eye on the catwalks when making your way through the building’s interior, as most hostiles will be using this vantage point as a sniper perch. Dropping a T-UGS motion sensor near one of the server racks will help to detect enemies as they pass through the building as well, so don’t be stingy in deploying them. This server room has five possible entrances, with two of them being tight doorways on the north wall. These doorways, due to their placement, can be monitored from the catwalk and can be rigged with explosives to provide cover. One of the entrances is a large hangar door to the west, as well as a doorway to the east side of the Warehouse. The last of these is a doorway that accesses the catwalk from the east side of the building. This is the safest path to enter the server room from, as it is the least direct and gives you the advantage of surveying the room prior to entry.