What if partisans get a complete rework into a utility unit?
Give them trash DPS like the SOV pioneers, but all kinds of goodies (might be even tech less)
AT nade, molotov, normal mine, heavy mine (like Riegel), flare mine (or alternatively the flare of SOV sniper), barbed wire, elite camo, improved cap and decap rate. Maybe even engine crit repairs (doesn't make too much sense regarding authenticity, but it's a nice ability that could synergize well with T34s ram ability since you now might have a chance to get your T34 out).
This would truly make it a behind the line squad. They lose to basically everything they come across, but they can do decent damage if you're able to sneak them around.
If that turns out to no be enough, we could upgrade them. Maybe a Panzerschreck (but lose AT nade), or PPsHs (but lose something else) etc.
However I fear that a rework like this is too much of an effort.
Ah nicee idea! Will be very interesting to see that. Perhaps it could be a like officer type unit that could be added into the commander by replacing the spy network slot (ie giving it to this new partisan unit, more abilities!). Also, only one unit can be called in at any given time, just like an officer.
In this way, no need for major changes to the commander but will make it scale better to late game and be more attractive.