Inferno cannon

"Let's start an inferno."

- Inferno Cannon rolling out of the War Factory

Inferno Cannons are China's basic artillery units that fire incendiary shells, and can create firestorms in large groups.

Background
"Let the fireballs fly!"

- Inferno Cannon firing

Inferno Cannons are self-propelled howitzers, firing napalm shells that explode and burn on impact, doing great damage to softer targets. Inferno Cannons are designed to operate in groups of three or four. If that many Inferno cannons fire at the same target, simultaneously, they can create a deadly Fire Storm. At least 6 are needed in order to create a firestorm when force-firing on the ground, however.

Upgrades
"Let's light them up!"

- Inferno Cannon about to burn enemies

Tactics/Counters
"Inferno Cannon's loaded!"

- Inferno Cannon awaiting orders

Compared to the Nuke cannon, Inferno Cannons are somewhat lacking in firepower, and only really effective in groups. However, they are also cheaper and easier to maneuver on the battlefield (albeit slower compared to the GLA Rocket Buggies, being tracked), and require only short time to deploy (automatically) before firing.

Inferno Cannons suffer the usual weaknesses of artillery units: they are slow moving, have poor armour and are vulnerable to air threats. Therefore, protection from other units is essential. Their range is comparable to that of Rocket Buggies, but they aren't affected by height differences with the target. They are superb at taking out enemy buildings, but cannot hit vehicles (especially fast ones) without micromanagement on the commander's part. If they hit infantry, they are highly effective. In large numbers, the firestorm created by their attack is devastating against all ground targets.

Changelog

 * Generals sneak peek patch 1.02: minimum range added
 * Zero Hour patch 1.03:
 * it now takes 3 shots to trigger a napalm firestorm (down from 6)
 * speed increased from 20 to 30 (China only)