Model design - light tank

[kholdstayr]

I don't fully understand how the model design system works. My problem is that I can design a model for a light tank, but after I do that, nothing happens. I never end up being able to create new tank units.

When I look at model reports, it says I've never designed a light tank model before, despite the fact I've tried several times now. After designing the model (selecting engine, gun type, armor), what do I need to do next?

[PaxMondo]

I think you need to actually build units that use this design.

[gmsitton]

ORIGINAL: kholdstayr

I don't fully understand how the model design system works. My problem is that I can design a model for a light tank, but after I do that, nothing happens. I never end up being able to create new tank units.

When I look at model reports, it says I've never designed a light tank model before, despite the fact I've tried several times now. After designing the model (selecting engine, gun type, armor), what do I need to do next?

You need to have a Model Design Council with BP budgeted towards it, and also in Discovery and Research under the council.

[Soar_Slitherine]

It will take some time for the model design council to complete the design, depending on BP investment (and they can only work on one design at a time). After that, the model will become available to build.

[kholdstayr]

Sorry for the late reply here. I found that I needed a Staff Council. I already had the model council, and created a light tank model with it. But then I was never able to actually get the light tank model to appear in my list of available formations to create. I had to then get a Staff Council before that would work.

[Soar_Slitherine]

Even without the staff council, you can still create smaller, independent tank formations (there's a checkbox in the Raise Formation screen).

[pauls2271]

I had to then get a Staff Council

Once the model design is completed, you can RAISE FORMATION, select Battalion and Independent. Your tanks should show up in the list of available units to create.

These days, I always go for the Model Design council first as I like to get Artillery and Tanks early - plus upgraded troops are nice.

[gmsitton]

Yes, Model Design before Staff Council. I recommend going all Discovery for the first few turns until you have models worth upgrading to, then go 50/50 Discovery/Research.