The Combat Recon quest in ARC Raiders is an early, key mission from Shani, the Security Trader, set in the ruins of Buried City. It introduces players to essential reconnaissance tactics for surviving against ARC threats like the Bombardier, blending stealthy scouting with targeted drone takedowns. Completing the quest unlocks further challenges in Shani's storyline and rewards smart raiders with useful gear and cosmetic items ARC Raiders Coins.

Players receive the quest shortly after their first raids, with Shani providing a pair of binoculars. Though simple, these are invaluable for initial scouting without attracting enemy fire. The mission takes place entirely in Buried City, where you must survey three specific cover locations before engaging Spotters—small recon drones that accompany the massive Bombardier ARC. These objectives can be completed across multiple drops, but efficiency comes from combining them strategically to reduce exposure.

Start at the Parking Garage staircases, a multi-level structure with minor loot and prime cover for assessment. Climb the exposed stairs and use your binoculars to scan for defensible angles overlooking nearby streets. Look for spots shielded from aerial view but with clear sightlines for ambushes. Interact briefly with each viable spot; the game confirms when you've identified suitable hides amid the concrete debris.

Next, move to the buses near Marano Park, a green area scattered with wrecked vehicles that double as natural barricades. Position yourself behind the largest bus husks and watch potential Bombardier patrol paths. The park's open layout funnels enemies predictably, making these spots ideal for mid-range engagements. Quick dashes between buses keep you safe while completing your scouting objectives.

The third location is the attics along Main Street, accessible via rickety ladders or rooftop jumps. These elevated positions provide overhead views, letting you spot windows or gaps that work as sniper nests without silhouetting yourself against the skyline. With all three covers scoped, Buried City becomes a tactical playground where you can plan your next moves.

For the offensive part, destroy two Spotters, the Bombardier's "eyes in the sky," which appear only when a Bombardier spawns on the map. These drones hover over key areas like Marano Park's center or Main Street's heart. Focus on one first if the other is out of reach. Use a heavy weapon like an AR or Fer rifle, as each Spotter goes down after two precise shots. Duck into nearby buildings after hitting them to avoid retaliatory mortars, then loot a Spotter Relay from the wreckage cheap ARC Raiders gear.

Secure the Relay, extract back to Speranza, and hand it to Shani to complete Combat Recon. Rewards include the Red Radio Renegade outfit color, five Firecrackers for distractions, and a Fireworks Box for extra utility. This quest reinforces the core raid loop of observe, strike, and evade, preparing you for Bombardier hunts while giving a deeper understanding of Buried City's layered threats.