The problem is the "lemming" mentality of players today. Nobody "thinks" any more, they just follow in hordes. Todays "squad leaders" where brought up in this "horde" manner and that is the only way they know how to play the game. Years ago, before the "hordes" there were a number of "key players" that where very well known for the plans, and attacks. When they logged in all of those looking to do tactical type game play would join their missions.
These missions, while full of some pretty substantial numbers where not hordes. The reason being is the numbers were used to co-ordinate a "plan" not to over whelm the enemy. Today its 3 goons 10 niks and 10 110's every one stay low run to the base, Niks take out ace and vulch, and 110's take out the town. If the sneak was busted they pack up and more someplace else. The old way would have used the numbers differently. They would have had4-5 sets of buffs in the air, a few fast fighters for high cap, and few medium alt heavy fighters for clean-up, and GVs and goons. Everything timed to flow. Buffs and GVs out first because they need a bit more time to get into position, work a couple bases at a time. VH taken down 15 mins before the attack really starts. flight paths taken to deliberately flash a base and bring up a dar bar while the whole wing just runs the edge going to a different base.
Plans and missions where thought out, and if one was "busted" the attacking force adjust tactics to COMPLETE the mission, not run away to some other undefended base. Today its more important to "steal" a base, grab your points and move on, most have forgotten how much fun this game can be. Small maps, big maps, it doesn't matter. Its all about how you play the game. If your always looking for the short cut, or quickest easiest way to do something, your cutting out half the fun.