The Harvester is slow and heavily armored (with the same armour and health statistics as the Mammoth tank of the same era). Because of its heavy armor it is difficult to destroy with small arms, meaning that attempting to destroy one without heavy weapons (such as a Rocket Launcher), tanks, or air support (ORCA) would take a long time and waste valuable ammunition. Its vital role meant it is given heavy armor but because it was not intended for front line combat or to come under prolonged enemy fire it was not given any armament to defend itself. Although it could run down infantry, it was typically piloted by a civilian driver who followed a preset route (focusing on collecting the TIberium and returning to base as soon as possible) and therefore it could be avoided rather easily.