Merge (Reorganization)

A Merge is a reorganization of the command structure, wherein two units are ordered to become a single unit. The smaller unit (typically) will completely disband and its players join the larger unit, becoming permanent members of that unit and losing their previous Callsign and identity altogether. This order is typically issued when both units (or at least one of them) have lost so many players that it makes more sense to combine them into a single unit instead of keeping them separate.

For example, if a Squad has lost more than half its players, the Squad Leader may decide to consolidate his two Fireteams into a single Fireteam. This restores one strong Fireteam instead of keeping two weak Fireteams - trading tactical flexibility for combat effectiveness. Note that the Squad Leader in this situation may opt to keep his Fireteams separate despite the losses - as a matter of personal preference or due to any other consideration.

Players merge into their "destination" unit by finding a member of that unit and using the ACE Interact menu to join their team. The merging player's name is added to the Roster of their new unit, and is given a white color by default. Once all members of a unit have merged into another unit, the original unit ceases to exist and will no longer be tracked on the Map.

In some cases, a unit may be ordered to merge into multiple different units. For example, a Squad that has lost all but a few of its players may be ordered to merge into another Squad, with each player merging into a different Fireteam in that new squad. It is typically up to the leader of the new unit to decide how to distribute players among subordinate elements.

A "Merge" is distinct from a "Collapse", where the unit retains its original Callsign but downgrades its role and falls under the command of another unit. For the most part, Collapses are ordered when the unit is still strong enough to function at a downgraded role; whereas Merges are performed when the unit is so under-strength that there is no more reason to keep it separate.