I’d better post the Technology (practical research) rules to explain that:
TECHNOLOGY
Your combat units can be upgraded into better versions by investing in technology over the course of the game. When a unit type reaches the next level of technology, its Attack and Defence values will increase; the Cost does not.
Each Power begins the game with varying levels of technology for each of its combat units, based upon its historical situation. For example, some powers will have more advanced sea units, and some will have more advanced air units etc. Players should use the Unit Technology Cards for their Power, to determine a unit’s Attack and Defence values. Use the Technology Chart below to keep track of your Power’s research advancements:
This chart lists the combat unit type (vertically) and the level of technology for that unit (horizontally). The National Control symbols indicate a given Power’s starting level of technology for each of its combat units. At the game set up, place one of your Power’s National Control Markers over its grey counterpart on the chart. There are four levels of technological development:
***** EARLY
****** BASIC
******* IMPROVED
******** ADVANCED
It costs 4 IPCs to upgrade a unit by one level. Pay the cost to the bank and then move the Control Marker that corresponds to the unit being upgraded, one space to the right. When the Control Marker reaches a column indicated by a number of stars, it has achieved the next level of technology. Replace that unit’s Unit Technology Card with the next higher version, e.g. if your Tanks were at the Basic (two star) level and they reach the Improved level (three star) replace the old two star card with the new three star one.
Destroyers, Cruisers and Aircraft Carriers cannot be upgraded past the third level of technology (Improved).
The Axis Minor combat units cannot be upgraded by technology and therefore do not have a Control Marker on the Technology Chart (see rules for AXIS MINORS).
TECHNOLOGY.doc
