I hit a group of 13 satellites with a direct fire weapon with a range of 4 and potential damage of 30 in the tactical combat screen. The satellite had components with a total damage resistance of 70. No hit was registered, however after several combat turns of firing, the satellite suddenly registered damage of 70 and was destroyed. How was this possible with a direct fire weapon that could only inflict damage of 30 ?? Does this mean they do not register incremental damage like ships do ??
Individual components within units are not tracked. It's "all or nothing" for units. So, they continue to operate until their damage limit is reached, then 'poof'! Also, regeneration (shields or armor) do not work with units. That's the trade off for no maintenance costs.