Paladin tank (Generals)

The Paladin Tank was the more advanced USA tank (over its counterpart the Crusader). Entering battlefield service as an advanced prototype, the Paladin quickly gained favour with US Generals. While early in the GLA conflict Crusaders often made up the bulk of armoured offensives, as in the attack against GLA-occupied Baghdad, in the latter stages of the war the Paladin was increasingly common. In addition to mounting an advanced cannon that fires 'jet-assisted' shells, the Paladin features a small laser capable of destroying enemy missiles and even infantry (at a limited rate). The Paladin was one of the first US units to mount such a laser, which saw use later in the conflict in units such as the Avenger, and makes the tank less vulnerable to enemy anti-tank weaponry. The Paladin comes at a cost, however.

Upgrades

 * Scout Drone/Battle Drone/Hellfire Drone - One of these drones may be selected as an upgrade per unit. The Scout Drone, the most inexpensive, simply provides information to the tank crew that increases their sight range and reveals otherwise difficult-to-spot stealthy units in the vicinity. The Battle Drone is armed with a small machine gun, giving some protection against infantry, and may also repair its parent vehicle. The Hellfire Drone, initially made available later in the conflict, fires a small, but surprisingly effective missile against enemy units. Drones may be upgraded with Drone Armour.
 * Composite Armour - Available from the Strategy Center, this upgrade improves the armour of each Paladin.
 * Advanced Training

Tactics
The Paladin, although costing more than most other tanks, fares better against rocket-toting infantry and is by no means slow or cumbersome. Nevertheless, it is ill-advised to send a squad of Paladins into battle with no protection from other units, especially against an experienced enemy. It should be noted that individual SCUD launchers are rendered completely useless by the tank's laser.

Counters
Since the Paladin's laser has a limited rate of fire, it is still vulnerable to anti-tank infantry and aircraft, albeit less so than other tanks.