The fictional Covenant leadership has reason to limit the distribution of plasma lances because ships carrying them could turn against it. In battle, the weapon is powerful when the enemy follows the tactics its users expect. An opponent that changes those tactics can reduce the advantage. Its performance therefore needs to be considered alongside control of the fleet and the conditions of the engagement.
Notable Point · 1:39:49-1:40:59
The tactical limits of a Covenant plasma lance
The Covenant plasma lance's power creates a risk for its fictional leaders and depends on opponents accepting the expected engagement.