Does a figure have to be capable of participating in a Fire Attack in order to contribute to the bonus? (Rifle figures on Mortar or MG bases).

I played "Yes".

Does the Elite Formations bonus contribute to the defensive roll against Assault?

I played "Yes".

Strictly speaking, no and no. you get +1 firepower per squad in the base when you are attacking. But obviusly a single mortar with firepower 7 (5) is nasty. But I agree that yes and yes feels much more correct. Another question for the FAQ.

beresford said:

I use "yes" to both questions in my games.

KlausFritsch said:

So do I. It just feels right. So we play that units get +1 firepower for each figure in the squad that is eligible to make the attack, i.e. in has to be within LOS and within range. If an MG is within normal range and two other figurines would be at long range, then they would be allowed to add 2 dice to the attack, but hits would then only be scored on a 6. If the player elects to only fire the MG, he'd fire two dice less, bt would hit on fives and sixes.

The problem is if you dont relize these issues apriori and start discussing them in the middle of the game. Since tide of iron is a one versus one game, such thing might be irritating.

However, I do agree that what this game needs now is good scenarios. Luckily Fury of the bear has some nice scenarios. Since armored maelstrom is reported to be balanced, I realy look forward to playing that one.