Ready to dominate the high seas?
Naval combat has always been the lifeblood of the Battlefield experience. Beyond the sheer scale of the battlefield, it is a vital pillar of the franchise’s signature rock-paper-scissors combat loop, fueling many of the series’ most unforgettable moments.
Battlefield 6 Season 4 marks the return of naval warfare to Multiplayer across two distinct maps: Tsuru Reef, a brand-new battlefield debuting at launch, and the legendary Wake Island, arriving later in the season. Before you head into the fray, here is a tactical breakdown of these new features and how to leave your competition foundering in your wake.
Mastering Naval Vehicles in Battlefield 6
Piloting a ship is intuitive, utilizing the same control schemes as land vehicles like tanks. Whether you are using a controller’s analog stick or the WASD keys on a keyboard, the mechanics for throttle, reverse, and steering remain consistent and responsive.
Seasoned captains know that momentum is your best defense. Avoiding a complete stop is crucial; while the advanced wave physics provide natural concealment, a stationary boat is a sitting duck for rival watercraft, aircraft, and enemy Engineers lurking along the coast.
The dynamic wave system dictates the pace of your naval engagements. On the high seas surrounding Tsuru Reef and Wake Island, turbulent waters will complicate your navigation. Expect swells to shift your vessel unexpectedly, which can disrupt your aim or send your boat catching air—but use these troughs to your advantage as temporary cover to break enemy lines of sight.
Inland waterways offer a more predictable, calm experience. While navigation is easier, proximity to land increases the risk of ambush. Remember: beaching your craft renders it completely vulnerable. Unless you intend to use your boat as a stationary turret, keep to the center of narrow channels and avoid the shoreline.
Beyond basic navigation, understanding the specific tactical roles of the RCB-90 Patrol Boat and the 7.7M NSW RHIB is essential for naval superiority.
RCB-90 Patrol Boat
Veterans of Battlefield 4 will feel right at home with the RCB-90. This two-seater powerhouse is a rugged, heavily armed vessel designed to seize control of the sea. While it lacks the agility of smaller craft, it compensates with superior armor and an arsenal of onboard weaponry.
It also functions as a mobile spawn point. When positioned near a dock or shoreline, the front ramp automatically deploys, allowing your squad to push directly onto the beachhead.
Captains can cycle between an autocannon—ideal for sustained fire against infantry and aircraft—and missiles, which are lethal against other watercraft. We recommend opening engagements with missiles to force defensive maneuvers, then following up with the autocannon to seal the deal. The gunner, meanwhile, controls the 120mm mortar, which can be fired manually for direct line-of-sight hits or in a stabilized indirect fire mode to strike targets hidden behind terrain.
Mortar Loadout Options:
- High Explosive: Delivers massive impact damage; perfect for precision strikes against static targets.
- Airburst: Detonates in close proximity to vehicles or terrain, covering a wider area with shrapnel.
- Guided: Locks onto enemy vehicles. Highly effective, though susceptible to countermeasures like IR Smoke.
- Smoke: Deploys a thick screen to mask your movement or provide cover for advancing allies.
- Illumination: Launches a flare that highlights all enemy units within its descent radius on the minimap.
Customization for the RCB-90 allows you to swap primary missiles or adjust autocannon calibers. Always keep your equipment slot in mind; whether you opt for mines to create hazards or torpedoes for heavy anti-ship damage, your choice will dictate your playstyle.
7.7M NSW RHIB
The 7.7M NSW RHIB is built for speed and agility. While it lacks the heavy armor and customization depth of the RCB-90, its ability to weave through narrow channels and remain hidden in rolling waves makes it a top-tier choice for rapid insertion. Speed is your only armor here; never linger in one spot, and use your mobility to out-flank heavier, slower vessels.
Top 5 Tips for Naval Dominance
- Ride the Swells: Use the dynamic wave height to your advantage. Waves can mask your approach or serve as a buffer against incoming fire.
- Predict the Motion: Master the art of leading your shots. The ebb and flow of the ocean requires constant adjustment to your aim to remain accurate.
- Never Stop: Stalling your boat makes you a sitting duck. Maintain momentum at all times, even if it means circling in place to keep your profile difficult to target.
- Versatility Wins: Don’t settle for one loadout. Experiment with different mortar shells and equipment on your RCB-90 to counter the specific threats your team faces on the map.
- The RHIB Advantage: Use the RHIB to execute surprise flanks. Its small size allows you to reach unconventional locations and hit unsuspecting enemies where they least expect it.
Stay informed with all things Battlefield by checking our official website, signing up for the newsletter, and joining the conversation on Discord.
As our live service evolves, these features may be updated based on community feedback. We are committed to keeping you in the loop as we refine the Battlefield experience.