Helldivers 2 Orbital Smoke Strike Guide

[honeydriftz]

The Orbital Smoke Strike in Helldivers 2 is one of those underrated tools that can completely change how you approach objectives and combat situations. While it doesn’t deal direct damage like an Orbital Laser or Precision Strike, its true strength lies in the tactical cover it provides. If you know how and when to use it, the Orbital Smoke Strike can turn chaos into control.

What Is the Orbital Smoke Strike?

The Orbital Smoke Strike is a support stratagem that calls down a dense cloud of smoke over a designated area. Once deployed, it blocks enemy vision and suppresses incoming fire, giving you and your squad a precious window to regroup, revive teammates, or push through fortified positions. In higher difficulties, where visibility and timing are everything, this tool becomes invaluable.

How to Use It Effectively

Covering Revives and Extractions:
One of the best uses of the Orbital Smoke Strike is during extraction sequences. Drop the smoke right before activating the beacon or when bugs and automatons start swarming your position. The visual cover can confuse enemies, allowing your team to hold out longer.

Distraction and Mobility:
Enemies like the Automatons rely heavily on line-of-sight targeting. Using smoke between you and them can break their lock-ons, giving you space to maneuver. Combine it with mobility stratagems or heavy weapons to reposition without drawing immediate fire.

Support for Squad Coordination:
Communicate with your teammates before calling it in. The smoke can obscure both enemy and friendly vision, so it’s best used when everyone knows your plan. Some squads even pair it with Orbital Gas Strikes to create confusion while dealing area damage.

Recommended Loadouts

The Orbital Smoke Strike pairs well with defensive stratagems such as the Shield Generator Relay or static turrets. Since it doesn’t consume much cooldown time, it’s easy to fit into most builds. If you’re focusing on stealth or tactical play, it complements gear that enhances survivability, like the Guard Dog or supply packs.

Why It’s Worth Unlocking Early

While many players rush for high-damage orbital weapons, mastering utility tools like the Smoke Strike can give you a huge tactical advantage, especially in multiplayer missions. It’s not flashy, but it can be the reason your squad survives a chaotic final stand.

Final Tips for Dedicated Divers

As you progress and start experimenting with advanced gear, you might want to buy Helldivers 2 items to tailor your loadout efficiently. Whether it’s weapons, stratagems, or armor upgrades, building the right combination makes all the difference. For players looking to expand faster, some even look for cheap Helldivers 2 super credits to unlock customization and equipment without grinding endlessly.