: I like the idea of the ODSTs about as much as most people. I also get the
: attachment many of us have to them after their starring role in a great,
: different perspective in the halo universe with their own game. It's cool
: to see these Seal/Ranger/Delta Force-like (yet even crazier dropping from
: space!) simple human beings do what they do, but my question is why
: wouldn't an ODST want to become a spartan? To me it's another set of armor
: (and now energy shields) between me and death!

: I'm assuming the UNSC doesn't still use chain-mail armor on it's infantry, so
: why wouldn't they want to continue to upgrade their soldiers into spartans
: that realistically have a chance head-to-head against a brute, elite or
: other alien life form comparatively? Seems to me you would want all your
: infantry to have these 'super-suits' eventually as costs to deployment
: becomes acceptable. Am I missing any reason other than pride or 'this is
: how we've always done it' to not gradually want everyone wearing mjolnir?

: I guess I'm really just wondering if there's an argument for ODSTs beyond the
: dislike for 343I's handling of the Spartan-IV program?

: - MacGyver10

I don't like how it's often framed as a choice between the two when it comes to deciding the future of technology like this. I'm of the opinion that augmentations, cybernetics and armour shouldn't be conflated with the term "Spartan", least of all the Spartan-IV's and their lack of appeal. If the UNSC really wants realistic chances of surviving then it shouldn't restrict major advances in its infantry to one division based on the false belief that these technologies only belong to Spartans. ODST's could make good use of these technologies as well, and become even better at their role. So could every other division.