What is the maximum squad size in Zero Company?

Combat squad size vs. HQ roster capacity

Standard combat squad

Up to 4 Operators

HQ capacity

Up to 20 Operators

Starting HQ capacity

A maximum of 7 Operators

Hawks deployment

Required for story missions; skirmish missions allow any combination of Operators.

Can you increase squad size?

You can increase how many Operators your HQ roster can hold. That is different from increasing the standard combat squad: the Q&A still describes a limit of 4 deployed Operators. A larger roster gives you more Operators to choose from, not 20 regular deployment slots.

How does HQ roster capacity increase?

HQ roster capacity increases through upgrades at The Den, story progression, and new Authored Operators joining the squad.

The starting maximum of 7 is a capacity limit, not a promise that all those slots are filled immediately. The official answer identifies the routes to expansion but does not give a complete upgrade order, prices, or chapter-by-chapter unlock schedule.

Can a mission give you more than four characters?

Certain missions can add controllable characters beyond the standard deployed squad limit. The Q&A also says Hawks is required for story missions, while skirmish missions permit any combination of Operators.

For character identities, see the Operators guide. For the documented consequences of losing an Operator, see difficulty and permadeath.