Is there any way to give vehicles reverse movement orders?
Yes, you need to click in the rear hemisphere (no further than 30 meters from vehicle).
In the attack order, it will move off to the current opponent (pointed to an orange arrow), and in a move mode just in reverse.
Do AFVs have the ability to pop smoke as a defensive measure?
Yes, if equipped with smk grenade launchers. Shooting is automatic.
Сan also shoot shrapnel against close infantry if armed with frag grenade launchers.
How is the best way to give a unit a recon type order where they will take cover when contact is made?
For the infantry set modifiers hiden and fast movement. Then at the sight of the enemy they are sneak.
For vehicles - is attack mode with hiden modifer if you want to stay unnoticed.
Or defence order.