wouldnt it have small arms to counter strike forces?

Its a bit redundant in function.

Orignally planned it to act as a Command/control vehicle, but gave it turrets. Meaning it has a forward position-esque role.

but to answer your question, no. It'd pretty much level opposition with the guass turret and quad guns.

gotta remember that all military think about expenses... so firing those things wouldn't be an option

The Crawler is beyond modern military. Eventualy Gauss weaponry of that size and of a much more convenient setup would be an option eventually.

Maybe...

everything is based around price, stock prices, and public opinion. If there is a cheaper way... it will be used, that's why we have soo many Bradleys running around these days, 20mm hes are alot cheaper than a 120mm he... by about 150 bucks... kinda why i hate the military

Meh, quality over quanity. If you want the best, you'd pay for it. Otherwise you get some second hand that's done well, but you have to get alot to make up for any possible short comings.

That's just my opinion. Though in my little fictional world where i put all my models into use, the faction(s) that use the Crawler APC use it for multiple purposes and at times strip it of the turret if its not going to see the front lines but be used for propaganda or a 'home base' behind friendly lines. The Crawler isn't mass produced, but due to the fact they are used rarely on the front lines but are kept back as defensive units and units to provide a command center or troop carriers they have a longer 'life expectancy.

Didn't mean to talk your ear off, just get a little carried away with my junk.