War Game Dragon Player Gets Cheeks Beat

Hi, I came from WGR which I sunk a decent amount of hours into, I never really got into the pvp but I really enjoyed the campaigns. My main problem with it was it was basically just a horde defense. I put tanks in tree line, some AA in the area, some inf in buildings and wait for the AI to murder themselves on me.

I got brutalized by the AI Awhen I played this. What is the main difference between the games? The AI seems smarter, they back lined my artillery and they didn't just spam me with units.

What sort of things should I prioritize in the Army General mode? I just started at NATO and I don't have a feel for HOW to play this game. I have no clue what battles look good/which I'm gonna lose at. I clearly understand I'm not winning the starring battle with the 11th ACR and barely managed to claw out a draw, what tactics should I take after that?

Really love the game so far and I've been waiting for Army General to pull the trigger. Love it so far, I just feel like a scrub.