(To be used with Historicalboardgaming.com’s “SS” markers: http://www.historicalboardgaming.com/HBG-SS-Marker-Acrylic_p_763.html)
Background
The SS was a major paramilitary organization of the Nazi party that grew to rival the Wehrmacht in size and influence. In this ruleset, the German player may choose to enhance some of his units by making them into divisions of the Waffen-SS, the front line military arm of the SS. The units will have advantages over normal units, but limitations as well.
Setup
At the beginning of Germany’s first turn, take 3 “SS” markers and place each on an infantry stack with 3 units. This forms an SS division. For the initial placement, if there are more than 3 units in the stack, separate them before designating one as SS. All SS divisions must remain at at least 3 units strength, unless hits are taken in battle.
Expanding the SS
Every turn, one infantry unit may be added to each division if it is based in a zone with an industrial complex. Divisions may not be split up or have units taken from them unless the division has 6+ units, in which case it may be split into divisions of at least 3. When a division splits, the new stack is considered a separate division, and therefore can be added to one unit at a time along with its counterparts. Also, division splitting may only occur in the non-combat move phase.
As the war went on, the SS grew in size and scope. Starting in the purchase units phase of turn 3, the German player can designate 2 stacks of 3 (existing) tanks to be SS panzer divisions. These units can be added to (one unit at a time) just like the infantry divisions.
Advantages
SS units have modified stats, listed below.
SS Infantry attack on 2 under any circumstances. When fighting in Germany, West Germany, or Greater Southern Germany, SS infantry defend on 3.
SS Panzer divisions can attack on 4.
Disadvantages
As mentioned above, SS divisions can NEVER divide during the combat move phase or for tactical reasons, and they cannot exist as a stack less than 3 units. The only exception is if a front line unit takes casualties in combat.
If using my “Operation Valkyrie” scenario (http://www.axisandallies.org/forums/index.php?topic=30059.0), all SS units are arrested if a zone chooses to comply with the order, and are removed from play until the scenario is resolved. If a zone stays loyal or converts back to loyal, the units are moved back onto the map.
