Best HOI4 Division Templates for 2023

What makes a great division template in Hearts of Iron IV (HOI4)? Veterans of the game know that the right division structure can be the difference between holding a front and being pushed back. With the latest updates in 2023, certain division templates have become more optimal, while others might no longer be as effective. This article dives into the most effective division templates for different situations, providing both a solid understanding of their structure and practical guidance for their use.

If you're new to the game, or just seeking to refresh your knowledge for the latest patch, you'll find this breakdown of the top templates helpful. Division templates in HOI4 require careful balancing of infantry, artillery, tanks, and support units. Choosing the right combination can make your army far more effective in combat, whether you're pushing through enemy lines, defending key positions, or operating in diverse terrains like deserts, forests, or urban areas.

Why Division Templates Matter

In HOI4, your military's ability to conduct successful campaigns relies heavily on how your divisions are structured. Each template serves a different purpose. For example, some are best for hard-hitting offensive pushes, while others excel at defensive operations. Poorly balanced templates can leave you vulnerable to enemy counter-attacks or simply waste resources.

But as with any strategy, there's no one-size-fits-all template. You need to adapt to your nation's strengths, weaknesses, and the terrain of the battlefield. With 2023’s updates, there have been a few changes to the meta that may shift how you build your forces.

Key Factors in Division Design: Soft Attack vs Hard Attack

When building divisions, it's essential to understand the concepts of soft attack and hard attack. Soft attack targets infantry and lightly armored units, while hard attack focuses on dealing damage to tanks and other heavily armored vehicles. For example, if you're facing a country that relies heavily on infantry, you’ll want to increase your soft attack by incorporating artillery into your divisions. Conversely, if you expect to face a lot of enemy armor, adding anti-tank units to your division will give you a better chance at holding the line.

To create an effective division, you should look to maintain a balance between offense and defense, while considering terrain, weather conditions, and your nation’s production capacity. Below, we'll explore the top templates to use for various circumstances.

1. The Standard 7/2 Infantry Division:

The 7/2 division template, made up of 7 infantry battalions and 2 artillery battalions, has been a classic for years. Its main strength is its high soft attack, which is excellent for breaking enemy lines. The addition of artillery boosts your offensive power significantly. In 2023, this template still holds up as a reliable choice for countries that can afford the production of artillery pieces.

Example Template:

• 7 Infantry Battalions
• 2 Artillery Battalions
• Engineer Support Company (for increased fort defense and river crossing ability)
• Recon Support Company (for additional speed and movement bonuses)

2. 14/4 Heavy Infantry Division:

If you are a nation with higher manpower and industry, you may opt for the 14/4 division template, composed of 14 infantry and 4 artillery battalions. This is a stronger version of the 7/2 template, designed to overwhelm enemy defenses. The downside is that it requires more manpower and equipment, but if you can afford it, the firepower is unmatched.

Example Template:

• 14 Infantry Battalions
• 4 Artillery Battalions
• Support Companies: Engineers, Recon, Logistics (to reduce supply consumption)

3. Armored Divisions: Tanks and Mechanized Infantry

Armored divisions in HOI4 are powerful tools for breakthroughs. The best divisions in this category balance tanks, mechanized infantry, and support units to create a force capable of breaking through fortified enemy lines and holding newly captured ground.

A 20-width tank division typically consists of a mix of medium tanks and mechanized infantry. Here's a 2023 updated version for medium tank divisions:

Example Template:

• 6 Medium Tank Battalions
• 4 Mechanized Infantry Battalions
• Support Companies: Maintenance (to reduce equipment loss), Logistics, Engineers

4. Mountaineer Divisions:

When fighting in mountainous terrain, regular infantry won't cut it. Mountaineer divisions provide the necessary bonuses to movement and combat efficiency in these tough terrains. These are essential for countries like Italy or countries fighting in the Balkans.

Example Template:

• 6 Mountaineer Battalions
• 1 Artillery Battalion
• Support Companies: Engineers, Recon, Logistics, and Field Hospitals (to preserve manpower)

5. Marine Divisions for Amphibious Operations:

Marine divisions are critical for launching successful naval invasions. A typical marine division consists of specialized marine battalions, artillery, and support companies designed for coastal assaults.

Example Template:

• 6 Marine Battalions
• 2 Artillery Battalions
• Support Companies: Engineers (for landing bonuses), Logistics, Recon

6. Garrison Templates:

For defending occupied territory or guarding coastlines, you don't need to use expensive divisions. A simple garrison template will suffice, reducing the cost while providing reasonable defense against partisans and minor enemy attacks.

Example Template:

• 2 Infantry Battalions
• 1 Cavalry Battalion (for movement speed)
• Support Company: Military Police (to boost suppression)

Logistics and Support Units:

In 2023, supply consumption and logistical issues remain some of the most critical aspects of warfare in HOI4. Having the right support companies—especially logistics companies—in your divisions can make the difference between winning and losing a campaign. Tanks and mechanized units are especially supply-hungry, and logistics companies can reduce their consumption significantly.

Best Practices for Adapting Division Templates in 2023:

1. Adapt to Terrain: Don't use the same division template everywhere. For example, don't send heavy tanks into the mountains or dense forests. Customize your templates based on the terrain and weather you expect to encounter.

2. Balance Manpower and Equipment: If you're playing as a minor nation, focus on efficient use of manpower. Templates that are too large will drain your manpower quickly. Conversely, major nations with more resources can afford larger, more equipment-heavy divisions.

3. Use Recon and Engineers Effectively: These support companies can give you the edge in combat by increasing movement speed and providing critical bonuses in difficult terrain.

In conclusion, 2023 has introduced some changes to HOI4’s division meta, but the fundamentals remain the same: the best division templates are those that are tailored to the unique needs of your campaign. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each template, you can build an army that is ready to take on any challenge the game throws at you.