They are members of the Black Hand who, due to their value and small numbers, were usually stationed as guards or commanders in facilities behind Nod lines. The Elite Cadre wear similar body armour to Nod light infantry, except that the weapon they use is far more powerful than that of standard light infantry, and similar to that used by a cyborg. Elite Cadre armour is also heavier than that of the standard light infantry. Therefore, they filled in the role of heavy assault troopers in Nod's forces.