Guastatori del Genio

The Guastatori (literal translation demolishers, destroyers or spoilers) are a branch of the Italian Army Engineers and have roots in the Sardinian Army of 1793. It was resurrected in 1940 for the new school of assault engineers (Arditi del Genio, as they were known in WWI). Thought their name hails from the age of Napoleon, their role, tactics and specialities have roots in the more recent past of the First World War.

The Guastatori were picked from the ordinary engineers to undergo further training with explosives, mines and obstacle clearing. They were prepared to carry out their task under fire and to lead assaults on prepared and fortified positions. The first intake to the School finished training on 30 September 1940 and produced four companies. The second intake completed training in November and produced another five companies. During fighting between 1941 and 1943 they faced many desperate situations without of hope of support and with minimal armament, but the Guastatori still prevailed and earned the admiration and the respect of both friends and enemies.

In Flames of War

Demolisher platoons can be brought as support choices for any Italian company as they are a Divisional Support Platoon option. They were often parcelled out to who ever needed their specialist skills. They are Pioneer Rifle teams (Anti-tank 4 in assaults) and can be upgraded to Pioneer Rifle/MG teams and one team per Demolisher Squad can be upgraded to a Flame-thrower. They are rated as Elite. Contains 2 squads including Flame-thrower stands. Brixia 45mm Mortar teams sold separately.