How to Get a Spotter Relay in ARC Raiders

Mar-09-2026 PST

Missions in ARC Raiders often throw players into chaotic situations filled with hostile machines and rival raiders. However, some quests require a slower and more strategic approach. The Combat Recon mission is one such task, asking players to study the battlefield, identify safe cover positions, and collect a crucial component from one of the game's aerial threats.

 

If you're trying to complete Combat Recon, obtaining a Spotter Relay is the key objective. This guide explains how to scout cover positions in Buried City, locate Spotter drones, and safely extract with the relay while collecting useful ARC Raiders Items along the way.

 

What Is the Combat Recon Quest?

 

The Combat Recon quest focuses on gathering battlefield intelligence rather than simply defeating enemies. Players must travel to the Buried City map and identify several strategic cover locations before hunting down a Spotter drone to retrieve its relay component.

 

While the mission might seem straightforward, the Buried City can be dangerous. ARC units frequently patrol the area, and other players may also be searching for valuable loot or completing the same quest.

 

Preparation is essential. Bringing reliable weapons, healing supplies, and other useful ARC Raiders Items can greatly improve your chances of completing the mission without losing your progress.

 

Step One: Scout the Cover Locations

 

Before hunting Spotters, the quest requires players to identify three cover positions across Buried City. These locations highlight safe areas where raiders can observe enemies or defend themselves during combat.

 

Below are the three locations you must visit.

 

1. Parking Garage Staircases

 

Location: North side of Buried City

 

Your first reconnaissance point is located in the Parking Garage.

 

To reach the objective:

 

1. Enter the parking structure and move toward the upper levels.

2. Locate the stairwell near the top floor.

3. Inside the stairwell, look for a broken wall.

4. Interact with the prompt to mark the cover position.

 

This location provides a high vantage point, making it an excellent place to observe enemy movement while staying protected.

 

2. Marano Park Buses

 

Location: Central Buried City

 

The second reconnaissance location is inside one of the buses parked near Marano Park.

 

To complete this objective:

 

1. Travel to the southwest side of Marano Park, near the train station ramp.

2. Find the bus closest to the ramp.

3. Enter the bus and interact with the prompt inside.

 

This position offers good cover from aerial enemies while still allowing you to monitor activity in the park area.

 

3. Plaza Rosa Attics

 

Location: South side of Buried City

 

The final reconnaissance location is in Plaza Rosa.

 

Follow these steps:

 

1. Reach the roof of the western Plaza Rosa building.

2. Look for an opening that allows you to drop into the attic.

3. Once inside, interact with the window overlooking the plaza.

 

This position provides excellent visibility while maintaining strong cover from enemies below.

 

After completing these three reconnaissance objectives, the next step of the mission unlocks: hunting Spotters.

 

Step Two: Finding Spotters in the Buried City

 

Spotters are small aerial drones used by larger ARC units to scan and mark player positions.

 

However, they only appear when a Bombardier is present on the map. Because of this, finding Spotters often requires locating the Bombardier first.

 

The Bombardier most commonly patrols areas around Marano Park, making it one of the best places to search.

 

How to Identify Spotters

 

Spotters are easy to recognize once you know what to look for:

 

·Small flying drone-like machines

·Surrounded by a circular ring

·Usually travel in pairs

·Frequently orbit around the Bombardier

 

These drones will quickly mark your location if they detect you, potentially attracting other ARC enemies or even nearby players.

 

Step Three: Destroy the Spotters

 

To complete the quest, you must destroy at least two Spotters.

When engaging them, keep these tips in mind:

 

Use cover whenever possible.

 

Spotters are highly mobile and can quickly alert nearby enemies if they spot you.

 

Attack from long range.

 

Using rifles or accurate weapons allows you to eliminate them before they get too close.

 

Avoid the Bombardier if possible.

 

While it may be tempting to engage the larger enemy, doing so can attract additional ARC units and complicate the mission.

 

Players who have upgraded their gear after they buy ARC Raiders Blueprints often find these fights much easier, as stronger weapons can destroy drones quickly before they trigger alarms.

 

Step Four: Loot the Spotter Relay

 

Once you destroy the Spotters, approach their wreckage and loot the remains.

 

You only need one Spotter Relay to complete the quest.

 

Because the relay is an important quest item, it's best to place it into your Safe Pocket if you have one available. Doing this ensures that the relay is protected even if you're eliminated before extracting.

 

During this stage, it's also worth looting other enemies and containers nearby, as you may discover additional ARC Raiders Items that can help with future missions or crafting.

 

Step Five: Extract and Return to Speranza

 

After securing the Spotter Relay, your final objective is to successfully extract from the raid.

 

Once you return to Speranza, deliver the relay to Shani to complete the Combat Recon mission.

 

Completing the quest rewards you with:

 

·Firecrackers

·Fireworks Box

·Radio Renegade Outfit

 

These rewards provide both useful items and cosmetic customization options for your raider.

 

Tips for Completing Combat Recon Safely

 

Because the Buried City is often busy with both machines and players, using a careful strategy is key.

 

Move slowly between objectives.

 

Rushing through the map can attract unwanted attention.

 

Use elevated positions.

 

Roofs and balconies often provide better visibility and escape routes.

 

Upgrade your gear when possible.

 

Players who buy ARC Raiders BluePrints gain access to stronger equipment, which can make missions like Combat Recon significantly easier.

 

Final Thoughts

 

The Combat Recon quest in ARC Raiders challenges players to balance patience, exploration, and combat. By scouting key cover positions in Buried City and destroying Spotter drones near Marano Park, you can successfully obtain the Spotter Relay and complete the mission.

 

With careful planning, strong equipment, and the right ARC Raiders Items, this quest becomes a manageable challenge that rewards both tactical awareness and survival skills.

 

For raiders willing to prepare properly-and perhaps craft better gear after they buy ARC Raiders Blueprints-missions like Combat Recon are an excellent way to gain rewards and improve your standing in the dangerous world of ARC Raiders.