Introduced alongside the Flashpoint update, "Dust on the Wires" is a key side quest in ARC Raiders BluePrints that tasks players with investigating a missing scout patrol for Shani, the game's trader. Unlike repeatable projects like the High-Gain Antenna, this quest is linear, location-specific, and must be completed in a single match.
Centered entirely on the Spaceport map, it combines exploration, light combat, and objective-based progression-offering a unique backpack attachment as its final reward. This guide breaks down every step, preparation tip, and potential pitfall to help you finish the quest efficiently.
Quest Overview: What Is "Dust on the Wires"?
"Dust on the Wires" is one of several new quests added in the Flashpoint update, alongside "Clamoring for Attention" and "Outstanding Balance". Its core premise is simple: Shani has lost contact with a scout patrol and sends you to trace their last movements across the Spaceport.
The quest consists of five sequential objectives, all tied to specific locations on the Spaceport map. Crucially, you must complete all objectives in one deployment-leaving the match or being knocked out (without a safe pocket) will force you to start over.
While combat is not mandatory, the Spaceport is filled with ARC enemies, so coming prepared is key. The final reward, the Fax Machine backpack attachment, makes the effort well worth it.
Pre-Quest Preparation: Gear & Tips
Before loading into the Spaceport map, take a few minutes to prepare-this will save you time and frustration during the quest. First, avoid using a free loadout. Free loadouts lack safe pockets, meaning you'll lose the quest's critical item if you're knocked out.
Equip an augment with a safe pocket if possible; this will protect the scout patrol note you'll collect later. Additionally, pack plenty of adrenaline shots-you'll be covering large distances across the Spaceport, and stamina is essential for escaping enemies or climbing structures.
Bring a reliable weapon (like the Torrente II assault rifle from the High-Gain Antenna Project) to handle ARC patrols. The Spaceport is dense with enemies, so having a balanced loadout will keep you safe.
Step 1: Visit a Field Depot on the Eastern Side of Spaceport
The first objective is to locate any field depot on the eastern side of the Spaceport map. Field depots are small, enclosed structures, and there are multiple options to choose from in this area.
The easiest one to find is the southernmost field depot on the eastern plain-it's visible from a distance and close to your next objective, saving you time. Load into the Spaceport map and head east until you spot the structure.
You don't need to deliver any crates or fight enemies here-simply enter the depot to mark the first objective as complete.
Step 2: Use the Field Radio to Transmit the Scout Log
Once inside the eastern field depot, look for a yellow radio on a study desk in the corner of the room. This radio holds the scout patrol's last log, which you need to transmit to Shani.
Approach the radio, and a prompt will appear to "Resend Log." Interact with it, and Shani will acknowledge the transmission via comms. This completes the second objective in one simple step.
Be mindful of ARC enemies that may spawn near the depot after you interact with the radio-clear them out quickly to avoid being knocked out.
Step 3: Interact with the Terminal in the Old Raider Tower
Next, you'll need to head west across the map to the maintenance hangar, which is located between the employee parking lot and fuel storage area. From here, look northwest for the Old Raider Tower-a metallic structure with stairs leading to the top.
Climb the stairs to reach the tower's upper level, where you'll find a yellow-marked terminal. Interact with this terminal to transmit additional data to Shani, who will update you on the scout patrol's possible location.
The tower is often guarded by ARC Sentinels and Vaporizer drones, so clear the area before climbing. Take your time-rushing up the stairs can leave you vulnerable to enemy fire.
Step 4: Find Traces of the Scout Patrol Near the Maintenance Hangar
After leaving the Old Raider Tower, head back to the maintenance hangar and search the surrounding area for traces of the scout patrol. The clues are located southwest of the hangar, near a set of overturned trolleys.
Approach the trolleys, and a prompt will appear to "Share Location." Interact with it to confirm you've found the scout patrol's last known position. This triggers the final objective of the quest.
Keep an eye out for ARC patrols in this area-they often patrol near the hangar, and the trolleys offer little cover. Use stealth if possible to avoid unnecessary combat.
Step 5: Search for the Scouts' Remains & Retrieve the Patrol Note
The final objective requires you to search the scouts' remains near the buy ARC Raiders Armors trolleys. Look for a red trolley with a blue tarp and buckets inside-this is where the scouts' remains are located.
Interact with the trolley to find the scout patrol note, a critical quest item. Immediately place this note in your safe pocket (if you have one) to prevent losing it if you're knocked out.
Once you have the note, you're free to extract from the match. You don't need to return to Shani during the deployment-she will automatically collect the note once you extract.
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