Caliope is still a waste of a commander slot. Its rockets lands way too slow, allowing the opponent plenty of time to move their infantry out of the fire zone. If relic wants USF players to use this unit over priest, they need to do sth about its firing speed
I dont think that rangers pure stats make up for their lack of skill after removal of damage reduction. If adding smokes is unacceptable what about adding an offensive skill like tactical assault. It fits the characterastics as a close combat unit and a high risk-high return mechanism.