Yes, something like that, good idea. Hmm, maybe a Loader Armour? Could need a Loader Armour to upgrade...
I have to take a closer look at the Beastmaster unit sprite.
Excellent Idea, legionof1.
I think I will give them some kind of energy shield/bubble, nothing fancy, just a small outline over the original graphics. The shield will somehow boost their stats and resistances. I am not sure how I can make that sound technically plausible, but that's a minor problem.
Just had a second idea: I will make them invisible/add a ghost armor. Their stats will not be changed, that way they stay balanced and they still have a use in the late-game.