Good day,
I'm sure you will get varying opinions on this one. Airborne Ops are probably one the most difficult to pull off. Make up of these missions should be tailored to the type of mission, terrain, and what opposition can be expected.
Generally speaking Gliders need room to land and in a lower threat environment can be useful to put troops more or less exactly where you want them. As well they can carry heavy loads like AT Guns and Jeeps, plus if carrying troops they will be able to rally better as they should be more or less together.
However, they seem easier to shoot down as well. Also landed gliders telegraph your position more readily. I’m not sure how much the AI uses this but rest assured a human Commander won’t miss this.
Transports on the other hand would be more advised on heavier defended areas no matter the terrain. Be aware that this mode of insertion will leave you with a much more scattered force and rallying them will be more difficult.
Bottom line is Airborne Ops should only tried if you feel that the causalities are worth it. With Western Allies and Germans if the conditions are right I'd tend to lean towards a glider heavy force so I can have the advantage of command control and some heavier weapons. However, I'd rather have my Paras or FJ's riding along with my Panzers.
I have never tried Airborne Ops with the Russians.
I know this is not a cut and dried answer, however neither are Airborne Ops.
Bob out
