Simply stated, transports deliver land troops across sea zones from one land territory to another. As you know, they can carry two infantry, one armor or one aa gun over the waters. This vessel is critical to the Allies for shuttling soldiers and tanks into Europe and Africa. Japan, as well, maybe dependent upon transports for getting troops into Asia, to each of the Pacific Islands, Africa, and even the United States. And finally, Germany may use transports for delivering ground units via the sea zones in the Med.

No Kamikazes?

The second use for a transport: Cannon Fodder. Transports are are tied with Subs as being the cheapest naval units in the game. Therefore, if the transport is not needed for delivering troops, then these vessels may be used as "cannon fodder". The most common example is the Russian transport that starts the game in the sea zone north of Karelia. Generally, this transport will never deliver troops. However, this transport can be used as the first casualty should the Russians decide to attack the W.Spain sea zone or the Germany sea zone in round one. Some players add this transport to the UK sea zone in hopes of providing one extra round of life for the British Battleship. Who knows, that transport may roll a lucky one destroying a precious German plane.

The rules clearly state, there are to be no Kamikaze attacks during a game. HA! Tell that to the captain of the transport that gets thrown into a sea battle in Axis & Allies.

The Blockade

Transports can create annoying blockades, especially against another attacking transport. A blockade in this case, is the use of a naval vessel to impede the movement of enemy naval vessels. Here are some examples:

A British transport in the Red Sea sea zone can prevent the Japanese from using a tranport from the Burma sea zone to bring troops into Egypt. Obviously, he may be the target of an air attack, but should no Axis planes be within striking distance, this transport may provide a excellent temporary defense.

Plugging up the Med! This is a two way street. The Germans can use a transport (and other vessels) in the Med to keep the Allies out -- this maybe cheaper than buying lands units to defend Southern Europe. If needed, the Allies can place a transport between the German naval units in the Med and the Allies main force usually in the UK sea zone or the West Spain sea zone.

Transports are more than just transports. They can function as fodder and cheap blockades.

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