The Tau Empire: A Multifaceted Military Force
Alien Allies and Auxiliaries
The Tau Empire is a diverse interstellar power that incorporates various alien species into its military ranks. One notable example is the Vespid Stingwings, highly maneuverable units led by Strain leaders who possess advanced translation technology. Other auxiliary forces include the Kroot, Gue’vesa (human defectors), and a range of other species, each contributing their unique skills to the Tau war effort.
Human Defectors and Their Role
The Tau Empire claims to have successfully integrated human defectors, known as Gue’vesa, into its society. These individuals, ranging from ideological converts to captured guardsmen and their families, are allegedly treated well and allowed to worship the Emperor. The 19th Regiment of the Brimlock Dragoons is a notable example of a human unit within the Tau military.
Diverse Alien Species in the Tau Empire
The Tau Empire has assimilated a wide range of alien species, each with their own distinct abilities. These include:
- Nicassar: Highly psychic beings
- Demiurg: Mining specialists
- Galg: Tentacled mercenaries
- Tarellian: Canine-like warriors
- Greet: Invertebrate beings from an oceanic world
- Thraxians: Chitinous, multi-armed fighters
- Ji’atrix: Ethereal void-faring specialists
Tau Military Structure and Doctrine
The Tau Empire’s military is primarily composed of the Fire Caste, with the Air Caste handling aerial and space combat. The basic military unit is the Cadre, similar to an Imperial Guard Company, which is often combined with other specialized Cadres to form a Contingent. Tau forces prioritize long-range combat, speed, and agility over close-quarters fighting, using pinpoint destruction and laser-guided missiles to achieve their objectives.
Battle Strategy and Philosophy
Tau battle plans are intricate affairs, with each Cadre assigned specific targets and launch times. If the initiative is lost, the Tau will fall back to plan a new strategy, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and mobility. The destruction of enemy forces takes precedence over territorial capture, and the Tau will willingly give ground to gain a more advantageous position. Static defense is foreign to the Tau military philosophy, with a focus on constant maneuverability and offense.
Auxiliary Forces in Close Combat
In situations where close combat is unavoidable, the Tau will deploy its auxiliaries, such as the Kroot, to handle the situation. This allows the Tau to maintain their preferred long-range combat doctrine while still addressing the needs of close-quarters fighting.
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