Lance types – simply explained

In BattleTech Alpha Strike, lance types (or formation types) are the smallest combat formations in an army. In the Inner Sphere , a lance consists of four units (usually BattleMechs or vehicles) and is typically led by a lieutenant. In the Clans, the equivalent is called a Star (5 units), while ComStar and Word of Blake rely on their “Level IIs” (6 units).

But what is the purpose of these formations? – They are not just a gimmick, but give your army tactical orientation and additional special rules that can be decisive in battle.

Overview table: Lance types in BattleTech Alpha Strike

Explanation of the most important formations

The table shows the overview, but each formation has its own style of play:

• Combat plants are the backbone, versatile and robust.
• Assault lances break enemy lines with brute force.
• Striker/cavalry lances stand out for their speed and flexibility.
• Fire lances dominate with long-range fire.
• Reconnaissance and pursuit lances rely on speed, ambushes and flanking attacks.
• Command lances give your army coordination and tactical advantages.
• Faction-specific variants such as Kurita’s Horde or Berserker Lances or Davian’s Hunter Lances add extra spice to the game.

Deep Dive: The most important formations in detail

1. the battle lance – the backbone

The battle plant is the most reliable choice. The Lucky special rule allows you to re-roll failed attack rolls. In a game where a single hit can decide the loss of a mech, this reliability is priceless. It is ideal for holding mission objectives in the middle of the field.

2. the Fire Lance – Death from afar

If you like to park your mechs behind hills, choose the Fire Lance. As the sniper bonus halves the penalties for medium and long range, your ranged fighters will hit much more consistently. Combine this with units that have the IF (Indirect Fire) special rule to put pressure on the enemy without being seen yourself.

3. the reconnaissance lance (Recon Lance) – eyes and ears

In scenarios with concealed units or artillery, the reconnaissance lance is indispensable. Forward Observer allows indirect fire to be aimed more precisely. Thanks to their high speed (MV 10″+), these units are also perfect for occupying mission objectives in the final phase of a turn.

4. the Command Lance – Strategic superiority

The Command Lance is expensive, but powerful. The leader gains Tactical Genius, which allows you to reroll the initiative roll once per turn. In Alpha Strike, initiative is often the most important factor, as the last unit moved has the optimal positional advantage.

Faction-specific features: Kurita & Davion

The “Force Manuals” add extra spice to the army structure:

• House Kurita (Draconis Combine): Goes for honor and mass. The Horde Lance is a fantastic way to make cheap units like the Savannah Master or infantry extremely difficult to take out.
• Davion House (United Suns): It’s all about precision here. The rifle lance makes perfect use of the autocannon (AC), turning Davion mechs such as the Enforcer or Centurion into deadly snipers.

Conclusion: Synergy is the key to victory

Creating a list for Alpha Strike doesn’t end with selecting the coolest mechs. Only by assigning appropriate lance types will your force reach its full potential. Lance types are a clever tool to add character and tactical depth to your Alpha Strike army. Whether robust battle lances, fast strikers, ranged fire lances or specialized faction formations – the choice of your lance determines how your force fights and which special rules it receives.

They also form the basis for larger formations such as companies or battalions and are therefore an important element if you play Alpha Strike in campaigns beyond pure combat.

A pro tip at the end: When building your list, make sure you keep an eye on the roles of your mechs(brawler, scout, sniper, etc.). A mech may be strong individually, but if it blocks the requirements for a formation type, you will lose valuable bonus abilities.