The AST is a large, bipedal armored walker that provides heavy fire support to enemy forces. It's equipped with powerful cannons and can withstand a significant amount of damage. You'll encounter these in missions like 'Fission' and 'Throttle'.
Strategy:
- Legs First: The AST's legs are its primary weak point. Focus all your fire on them to disable its mobility. Once a leg is destroyed, it will expose a critical component.
- Exposed Core: After disabling a leg, the AST will briefly expose a glowing core on its side or back. This is your window to deal massive damage. Use your most powerful weapons and explosives.
- Dodge & Weave: The AST's main cannons are slow to aim but deal heavy damage. Use your Exo-Dash to quickly move out of the way of incoming fire. Stay mobile.
- EMP Grenades: If available, EMP grenades can temporarily stun the AST, giving you a precious few seconds to unload damage on its weak points without retaliation.
- Utilize Cover: The AST's attacks can penetrate light cover, so always seek solid, reinforced cover when reloading or regenerating health.
- Secondary Objectives: Sometimes, the mission will provide specific tools or objectives to take down the AST, such as calling in air support or using mounted weapons. Pay attention to prompts.
Taking down an AST is a multi-stage process that requires sustained fire and tactical movement.