There's only one time you get to use the flare gun in The Division 2, and it's when you call in allies to help support you as you're taking a control point. It can be a little confusing on how to properly make use of this tool, mainly because when you fire it off it alerts the enemies to your presence, and it takes a bit of time for your support to arrive. What's the best time to use it? We're going to outline all of this critical information, below.
Using The Flare Gun
When Can You Use It?
The flare gun only comes out a couple of times in The Division 2, which is when you're attempting to capture a control point under the control of an enemy faction. The faction is going to fight back, as they do not want to lose the strategic location. Even though you could probably take them all on, you still need your allies to reclaim the position and protect while you're away. Thus, calling them in to not only help you in the fight makes dispatching your enemies faster, but it means you don't have to wait around for them to show up and get set up.
To call them, you'll see a small flashing indicator near your character's armor and health informing you to press a button prompt to use the flare. You can only use this inside of the enemy's control point, though. If you're wondering why you can't use it, it's because you're not inside that region. Once you're inside, click the button prompt and your Division agent should pull out a flare gun and fire it into the air. As soon as you use it, the enemy guarding the control point is aware of your presence.
You'll want to call them after you've already engaged the enemy, or shortly before. While the flare gun does give away your position, you can protect yourself in cover and summon them. They take a little bit of time to arrive at your location because they do not immediately spawn in near you. Prepare to hold out for them, and keep fighting.
How Long is a Control Point Encounter?
Fighting a control point can vary. The stronger district you're competing in, the more robust the AI enemies are going to be. They do have a pattern, though, and it's that they come in four waves. The first wave is the one guarding the encampment. The second wave includes an elite, who arrives from somewhere hidden away in the control point, along with some minions.
The third wave comes in from outside the control point because by now you've taken out the elite who was sent to guard the area. You can entrench yourself in the control point, and you likely have a better position to fight in. The final wave includes another elite soldier, so hopefully, you haven't used all or your armor kits, grenades, and skills, quite yet. The elite types for these control points can vary, depending on how far you've progressed through the story missions.
What Purpose Do Control Points Serve?
Control points are useful in The Division 2. They serve as fast-travel points, making it easier to pop in and out of a district wherever you see fit. Also, after you've taken out a control point, you get to raid their supply room for some great loot.
It's important to remember that the supply rooms for all of your control points respawn after 24 hours. Not everything, but you get an excellent number of materials and some decent gear for returning to these control points throughout your playthrough.
Remember: use the flare as quickly as possible so you and your allies can dominate the enemy's position.
