Besides the ODST Crossover armor, players want the new Stratagems that is the Bastion Tank in Helldivers 2. The latest addition to Helldivers 2 arsenal can be unlocked through the Ship Management console using Requisition Slips. Do not expect an indestructible war machine, though. The armor is lighter than its name suggests. However, its massive cannon and heavy machine gun fully justify its role as a “tank destroyer.” Even better, it carries an entire squad, much like the FRV.
If you plan to fight on the Automaton front, this vehicle can become a powerful support asset. Here is everything you need to know about unlocking the Bastion Tank in Helldivers 2 and using the HD2 Bastion Tank effectively.
How to Unlock the Bastion Tank in Helldivers 2
To gain access to the Bastion, head to your Super Destroyer’s Ship Management console. Then open the Hangar section and locate the Stratagem labeled:
- TD-220 Bastion Mk XVI
- Purchase it for 35,000 Requisition Slips to unlock it permanently.
At the moment, there is no confirmed level requirement. However, it likely follows a system similar to Helldivers 2 mechs, which typically unlock around level 25. Regardless, the Stratagem is universal. Any player can buy it as soon as they can afford the cost.
Once unlocked, you can equip it like any other Stratagem while preparing your mission loadout.
Tips for Using the Bastion Tank Effectively
The Bastion delivers huge firepower. Yet it demands coordination and patience. Understanding how it functions will dramatically improve your results.
Extremely Long Cooldown
This Stratagem comes with a very long recharge time. After deployment, you must wait just over 12 minutes to call in another tank. Most missions will only allow two or three uses, so deploy it carefully.
Requires at Least Two Players to Operate Properly
- Driver: Controls movement using throttle, steering, and clutch, just like operating the FRV.
- Gunner: Handles the 120mm main cannon (L2/LT) and the coaxial heavy machine gun (R2/RT).
This setup makes the Bastion Tank in Helldivers 2 especially deadly against heavily armored Automatons.
Can Carry Up to Four Players
The vehicle supports a full squad:
- Driver hatch sits at the front top.
- Gunner position is located toward the rear.
- Two additional passenger hatches are mounted at the back.
Passengers can lean out, fire their personal weapons, and even deploy Stratagems. The gunner can also switch to a passenger seat by pressing Circle/B.
Coordination determines survival. The cannon has limited turning range, so the gunner must guide the driver into position for clean firing angles. Meanwhile, passengers should monitor the flanks and rear. They can eliminate infantry, call out threats, and destroy hazards like mines to keep the path clear.
Manual Reloading Is Required
After firing the main cannon, you must reload manually. Press the reload button to chamber the next shell. This process takes several seconds. Use that downtime to switch to the heavy machine gun.
- Main cannon: 30 shells
- Machine gun: 2,000 rounds
The Bastion Tank in Helldivers 2 is powerful but not agile. Its turning radius is wide, and acceleration feels sluggish. Off-road performance is also weak. Expect slipping on hills and difficulty navigating rocky terrain.
Drive slowly. Avoid reckless charges. Careful positioning will keep the tank alive far longer.
Despite its awkward handling, the Bastion’s weight lets it crush many smaller enemies. Larger targets will survive the impact, but standard infantry can be flattened easily if necessary.
When the tank is about to explode, all crew members are automatically ejected. This gives everyone a chance to escape and regroup instead of losing the entire squad with the vehicle.
And that’s all you need to know about the Bastion Tank in Helldivers 2. For more Helldivers 2 content, stay tuned to RetroNoob.
