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'''Space Marine Chaplains''' are the spiritual leaders of the [[Space Marines]]. They accompany their battlebrothers to war, chanting liturgies and pushing them to further feats of bravery. They wear black power armour and often wear helmet in the visage of a skull. They enjoy warfare and the slaughter of their enemies, as they believe it to be the best way to honour the [[Emperor]] and their founding [[primarch]].
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{{SpaceMarinesPortal}}
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[[Image:DAChap.jpg|thumb|right|250px|A [[Firstborn]] Chaplain of the [[Dark Angels]].{{Fn|1a}}]]
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'''Space Marine Chaplains''' are the spiritual leaders of [[Space Marine Chapter]]s.
  
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They differ in their preaching compared to the [[Ecclesiarchy]] by their belief that the Emperor is not a god, just an inspired man. This is more how Space Marines see the Emperor.
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Warrior-priests, they fight alongside their battle-brothers, chanting the Chapter's sacred battle creeds, and inspiring their brethren to greater feats of bravery. To enemies they appear as terrifying and sinister figures in black [[power armour]] and [[Skull Helm|skull-visaged helmets]].{{Fn|10}}
  
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Chaplains are often blessed with a [[rosarius]] from the Ecclesiarchy to symbolise the tenuous link between the groups. A rosarius is a holy symbol, taking the form of a necklace or brooch, but can be rebuilt into other shapes to suit the chapter (notable examples include the Space Wolves chapter)
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==Overview==
 +
Each Chapter has its own unique cult, which is often thousands of years old. As these cults often predate the rise of the [[Ecclesiarchy]], the Chapter cults are not simply facets of the common [[Imperial Cult]]. While the Ecclesiarchy and its lay followers worship the [[Emperor of Mankind]] as a deity, several Chapter cults regard him as merely a brilliant and inspirational [[man]], though with scarcely less reverence. As in all things, this view of the Emperor's divinity, or lack thereof, varies from Chapter to Chapter. The chapter's own [[Primarch]] is also a major part of the Chapter's specific cult, revered as much as the Emperor.{{Fn|19}}
  
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==Within a Chapter==
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A formal sign of entente between the Ecclesiarchy and the Space Marines is the [[rosarius]], a holy symbol, taking the form of a necklace, amulet or brooch which often displays the [[Imperial Eagle]] or the [[Crux Terminatus]], or other shapes to suit the particular devotional qualities of the [[Chapter]] concerned (for example, the [[Space Wolves]] and their wolf iconography). Gifted to Space Marine Chaplains by the Ecclesiarchy, this blessing represents the brotherhood of the Imperial Faith and formally marks the continuance of religious concord between the two groups. In practice, though, the link between the organisations remains rather tenuous.{{Fn|19}}
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Chaplains feature heavily in a Space Marine's daily life. They also watch over the neophytes, newly joined members of the Space Marines, waiting for their implants. They are notoriously strict and fiery but they are also known for sense of duty and responsibility for the brother marines.
 
  
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Within the Fortress Monastery is the [[Reclusium]], the place where the chapters holy relics and, sometimes, the body of their primarch, is housed. The Chaplains lead their sermons from here, and rouse the Marines in their love of the Emperor. The [[Battle Barge|battle barges]] and ships of the chapters fleet also include huge cathedrals in the heart of each ship, allowing the Space Marines to pray while away from the fortress. They always lead the Space Marines in prayer, but a chaplain is not always needed for a marine to pray.
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==History==
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During the [[Great Crusade]], the Emperor specifically outlawed religious worship of any kind, but several [[Space Marine Legion]]s still employed spiritual advisors of some kind. The first known Space Marines who bore a resemblance to Chaplains were members of the XVIIth Legion, known as the Imperial Heralds. The Legion's 'heralds' wore black armour with a skull-faced helmet and a winged mace and delivered the Emperor's ultimatum to new worlds: submission or destruction.{{Fn|5a}} After the [[Primarch]] [[Lorgar]] joined the XVIIth, renaming them the [[Word Bearers]], he created a role for spiritual advisors, referring to them as 'Chaplains', who were assigned to minister to their brothers' psychological needs.{{Fn|2b}} Like the heralds, these Chaplains carried a skull-faced helmet and a winged mace but initially wore the same colours as other Word Bearer Legionaries. They later  repainted their armour black in remembrance of the ashes of [[Monarchia]].{{Fn|3}}
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 +
Similar positions also existed in other Legions, such as the [[Blood Angels]] [[Warden]]s, who served as the watchmen of the Blood Angels, serving as mentors and guides for the younger members of the Blood Angels, but also charged with upholding the laws of the IX Legion. These duties were varied, from offering a [[Space Marine Captain|Captain]] advice on tactical doctrine, to leading a ceremony of remembrance for fallen Space Marines.{{Fn|2a}} Wardens also wore all-black armour and carried the Crozius Arcanum as a weapon.{{Fn|2a}}{{Fn|6}} The [[Salamanders]] also had a body of chosen Legionaries who carried out the direct promulgation of the doctrines of [[Vulkan]], shaped by the culture of [[Nocturne]], called the 'Voices of Fire'.{{Fn|5b}} The [[Iron Hands]]' role of [[Iron Father]], which combines the position of Chaplain and [[Techmarine]] was brought into the legion from an order of engineer-mystics who maintained [[Dark Age of Technology]] machinery on [[Medusa (Planet)|Medusa]], following the re-discovery of [[Ferrus Manus]].{{Fn|7}}
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 +
After the [[Decree of Nikaea]], Lorgar offered his Chaplains' services to the other Legions. These Chaplains travelled among the Legions to counsel former [[Librarian]]s who felt uncomfortable at the loss of their [[psychic]] role, and ease them back into duty as ordinary [[Battle-Brother]]s. Many [[Primarch]]s accepted Lorgar's offer, the use of Chaplains spread to legions such as the [[Dark Angels]], [[Emperor's Children]], [[World Eaters]], and the [[Death Guard]] {{Fn|4}}. Other Primarchs such as [[Sanguinius]] declined, the duties being given to the already existing Wardens.{{Fn|6}}
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 +
Following the [[Horus Heresy]], the position of Chaplain continued in both Loyalist and Traitor Legions, those in the Traitor Legions becoming known as [[Dark Apostle]]s.{{Fn|42}}
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 +
==Responsibilities within a Chapter==
 +
Chaplains are the most well-versed in the knowledge of the Chapter's cult. This knowledge is put to practical use as Chaplains are responsible for the spiritual health, discipline, and faith of the chapter brethren. The bond between Marines and their Chaplains is a strong one. Chaplains are present in a Marine's life from the moment he is chosen as a [[neophyte]], presiding over their indoctrination as they progress toward becoming full battle-brothers.{{Fn|19}}
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 +
Within a Chapter's [[fortress-monastery]] is the [[Reclusiam]], a large chamber devoted to cult activities, and where the Chapter's holy relics and, sometimes, the body of its Primarch are housed. The Chaplains lead their sermons from here, and rouse the Marines in their love of the Emperor. The [[Battle Barge]]s and ships of the Chapter's fleet also include huge cathedrals in the heart of each ship, allowing the Space Marines to pray while away from the fortress. Chaplains always lead the Space Marines in prayer, but a Chaplain is not always needed for a Marine to pray.{{Fn|19}}
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 +
Each [[Space Marine Company]] has its own Chaplain. Chaplains begin their careers as [[Judiciar]]s within the Chapter.{{Fn|21}} At the headquarters level of the Chapter organisation are Chaplains holding the ranks of [[Reclusiarch]] and [[Master of Sanctity]], whose responsibilities extend to the Chapter as a whole.{{Fn|19}}
  
 
==Wargear==
 
==Wargear==
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The armour worn by Chaplains are holy in themselves. Often, they are hundreds, if not thousands, of years old. It is frequently adorned with ancient pieces of equipment, making them walking shrines in and of themselves. The face plate almost always represents a skull, inspiring fear in their enemies and faith in their fellow marines.
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[[image:40k-137-primaris-chaplain.jpg|250px|thumb|right|[[Imperial Fist]] [[Primaris]] '''Chaplain''' battles the [[Horrors of Tzeentch]]]]
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The [[power armour]] suits worn by Chaplains are considered holy in themselves. Often they are hundreds, if not thousands, of years old. A Chaplain's armour is highly stylised and archaic in appearance. Black is the colour associated with Chaplains, and most or all of their armour is painted in this colour, but not all.{{Fn|20}} Know variation are fully silver.{{Fn|33}}
  
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He also carries the [[Crozius Arcanum]], used in official ceremonies and worship, and is often topped with an Imperial Eagle or winged skull. It incorporates a potent energy field, allowing it to punch through armour easily.
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Symbols such as skulls and Imperial eagles commonly adorn the armour, but Chapter-specific symbols are also used. The face plate or the entire helmet is [[Skull Helm|traditionally skull-shaped]]. Skulls are also repeated throughout a Chaplain's armour - adorning an entire shoulder plate, the upper chest armour or the groin guard. One area of the armour, such as a shoulder guard, is always left in the Chapter colours, displaying the Chapter symbol. Part of the Chaplain's formal regalia is the [[Crozius Arcanum]], the Chaplain's staff of office. Used in chapter ceremonies and worship, many Chaplains take them into battle, symbolizing that battle is the highest ritual of the Chapter. The crozius is usually topped with an Imperial Eagle or winged skull. It incorporates a potent energy field, allowing it to be used as a weapon; one that will punch through armour easily, showing the power of faith.{{Fn|20}}
  
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The [[rosarius]] that chaplains are issued with contains a powerful force field, offering its protection to the bearer even against weapons that would otherwise leave no hope of survival.
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In many Chapters, once a Space Marine is inducted into the [[Chaplaincy]], they are forbidden to remove their helmets while in the presence of those who are not of their order.{{Fn|22}}
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The [[Rosarius]] that Chaplains wear around their neck incorporates a powerful [[force field]] generator, offering the bearer protection against weapons that even power armour would offer no hope of survival against. In light of this, the rosarius is sometimes referred to as a Chaplain's "soul armour."{{Fn|19}}
  
 
==Chapter Variations==
 
==Chapter Variations==
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Many chapters follow the Codex Astartes, but some have strayed from it. The [[Dark Angels]] use [[Interrogator-Chaplain]]s, forcing the fallen of their forces to confess and repent or to kill them after days of agonising pain.
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As each chapter has its own distinct cult, the specific roles of Chaplains can vary from Chapter to Chapter. The most notable differences in the roles of Chaplains of different Chapters are as follows:
  
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The [[Iron Hands]] have the rank of [[Iron Father]] fulfilling the roles of Chaplain, [[Apothecary]] and [[Techmarine]]. Due to the animosity between the Iron Hands and the Ecclesiarchy, the Iron Fathers are not issued with a Rosarius, they must instead manufacture their own versions of the protective holy symbol.
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===Black Templars===
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The [[Black Templars]] have their own variant of Chaplain in the form of [[Execrator]]s, who serve as frontline battlefield warriors to inspire others with their righteous rage.{{Fn|41}}
  
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In the [[Blood Angels]] chapter, the Chaplains lead the [[Death Company]] to their demise. They also care for those who completely succumb to the [[Red Thirst]], keeping them locked on their homeworld, [[Baal]].
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===Blood Angels===
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The Chaplains of the [[Blood Angels]] chapter constantly watch their brothers for the onset of the [[Black Rage]]. Only the Chaplains can communicate successfully with those unfortunates who have succumbed to the Rage and so lead them in battle as the [[Death Company]], fearsome warriors whose demise is assured. They also care for those who completely succumb to the [[Red Thirst]], and are rumoured to look after those who are locked away on their homeworld, [[Baal]]. The Blood Angels' chaplains also share responsibility for their battle-brothers' spiritual health with the chapter's [[apothecaries]], known as [[Sanguinary Priest]]s.{{Fn|25}}
  
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Within the [[Space Wolves]], the [[Wolf Priest]]s fulfill both Chaplain and [[Apothecary]] roles.
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The [[Death Company]] of the Blood Angels maintains its own special variant of the Chaplain, the [[Death Company Chaplain]]. These officers provide sanity amidst the carnage and rage of the Death Company.{{Fn|9}}
  
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The traiorous [[Word Bearers]] [[Legion]] still make use of Chaplains in battle, although spreading the twisted faith of [[Chaos]] rather than the [[Imperial]] creed. Skilled and cunning orators, these champions - now known as [[Dark Apostles]] - can lead entires armies fearlessly to sacrifice their lives, or summon hordes of [[daemon]]s to tear into the enemy. Their [[Crozius Arcanum]] have been defiled over the centuries, the resultant [[Accursed Crozius]] acting as weapon, shield and rallying point for the [[warp]].
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===Dark Angels===
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Although the [[Dark Angels]] have normal Chaplains, above the [[Space Marine Company|company]] level are specialised Chaplains known as [[Interrogator-Chaplain]]s, who form part of the chapter's [[Inner Circle]]. Their primary task is hunting down the [[Fallen]], their damned brethren, and forcing them to repent, which usually involves torture.{{Fn|1a}}
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This highly confidential mission makes the Interrogator-Chaplains a secretive and somewhat sinister group. Once a member of the Fallen has been captured, it is the duty of the Interrogator-Chaplains to force the prisoner to confess and repent. Those who repent are spared further torture and receive a painless death. Those who hold to their innocence are exorcised of their sins through excruciation and death.{{Fn|1a}}
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[[Image:Black templars chaplain by andrea uderzo.JPG|thumb|250px|right|A Chaplain of the [[Black Templars]]{{Fn|23}}]]
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===Emperor's Spears===
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The [[Emperor's Spears]] group together their Chaplains, [[Librarians]], [[Techmarines]] and [[Apothecaries]] under the term '''Druids'''. These warrior-priests each stand ready to harvest the gene-seed of fallen brothers, as well as performing their own duties based on their specialist skills and esoteric abilities. {{Fn|39}}
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===Executioners===
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The [[Executioners]] assign three chaplains, instead of just one, to each [[Space Marine Company|company]]. Each trio of Chaplains is known as the '''Death Speakers''' and are charged with maintaining the roll of the dead, and ensuring order within the chapter.{{Fn|8a}}
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===Iron Hands===
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The [[Iron Hands]] use the specialised rank of [[Iron Father]], combining the roles of Chaplain and [[Techmarine]]. Iron Fathers hold a particular reverence for the mechanical, and are rumoured to spend time on [[Mars]] as guests of the [[Adeptus Mechanicus]] during their training. It is said that they venerate the [[Machine God]] aspect of the Emperor ahead of any other version, which does not please the Ecclesiarchy at all. Due to this animosity between the Iron Hands and the Ecclesiarchy, the Iron Fathers are not issued with a [[rosarius]] and they must instead manufacture their own versions of the protective holy symbol.{{Fn|7}}
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===Space Wolves===
 +
Within the [[Space Wolves]], the [[Wolf Priest]]s combine the roles of Chaplain and [[Apothecary]]. They minister to both the spiritual and physical well-being of their brethren, and are completely responsible for all parts of the recruitment and indoctrination of new Space Wolves. As a result, individual Wolf Priests can regularly be seen traveling across the surface of [[Fenris]], watching the proud natives for those who show the potential to become one of the Imperium's mightiest warriors.{{Fn|31}}
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===Grey Knights===
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*{{Main|Grey Knights Chaplain}}
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[[Grey Knights]] Chaplains are given the duty of ensuring the mental fortitude of the Chapter's warriors against all things [[Daemon]]ic. They are also focuses of the [[Emperor]]'s anti-daemonic might.{{Fn|11}}
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==Primaris Chaplains==
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[[Image:PrimarisChaplainArt.jpg|thumb|right|250px|[[Primaris Space Marine|Primaris]] Chaplain{{Fn|12}}]]
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*{{Main|Primaris Space Marine}}
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The new generation of Space Marine, [[Primaris Space Marines]], also utilize the rank of Chaplain. Besides their standard Crozius, Primaris Chaplains are frequently seen wielding an [[Absolvor Bolt Pistol]].{{Fn|10}}
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 +
==Notable Space Marine Chaplains==
 +
{{Main|List of Chaplains}}
 +
*[[Asmodai]] — Master [[Interrogator-Chaplain]] of the [[Dark Angels]].{{Fn|1b}}
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*[[Astorath]] — [[Master of Sanctity|High Chaplain]] of the [[Blood Angels]].{{Fn|25}}
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*[[Daenor]] — [[Death Company Chaplain]] of the [[Blood Angels]].{{Fn|26}}
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*[[Grimaldus]] — [[Reclusiarch]] of the [[Black Templars]].{{Fn|28}}
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*[[Ivanus Enkomi]] — [[Reclusiarch]] of the [[Minotaurs]].{{Fn|8b}}
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*[[Lemartes]] — [[Blood Angels]].{{Fn|25}}
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*[[Lo Chang]] — [[Imperial Fists]].{{Fn|29}}
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*[[Ordamael]] — '''Paternis Sanguis''' of the [[Blood Angels]].{{Fn|27}}
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*[[Ortan Cassius]] — [[Master of Sanctity]] of the [[Ultramarines]].{{Fn|30}}
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*[[Ulrik]] — High [[Wolf Priest]] of the [[Space Wolves]].{{Fn|31}}
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*[[Xavier]] — [[Salamanders]].{{Fn|32}}
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 +
{{Clear}}
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==Images==
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<center>
 +
'''Chaplains in Terminator Armour'''
 +
</center>
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<gallery mode=nolines heights=150px>
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TermieChaplain.jpg|[[Ultramarines]] Terminator Chaplain (10th Edition){{Fn|40}}
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M1240840 99060101315 SMTermChaplainmain 873x627.jpg|[[Black Templar]] Chaplain in [[Terminator Armour]]{{Fn|35}}
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TermichaplainRT.jpg|Chaplain in [[Terminator Armour]]
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</gallery>
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<br>
 +
<center>
 +
'''Chaplains on [[Space Marine Bike|Bikes]]'''
 +
</center>
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<gallery mode=nolines heights=150px>
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PrimarisChaplainBike.jpg|Primaris Chaplain on Bike (9th Edition){{Fn|16}}
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Chaplain on Bike.jpg|Chaplain on Bike (2nd Edition){{Fn|14}}
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</gallery>
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<br>
 +
<center>
 +
'''Chaplains'''
 +
</center>
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<gallery mode=nolines heights=150px>
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PrimarisCaptain9th.jpg|Primaris Chaplain (9th Edition){{Fn|15}}
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Image:PrimarisChaplain.jpg|Primaris Chaplain{{Fn|34}}
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</gallery>
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 +
<center><gallery mode=nolines heights=150px>
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Chaplain2012.jpg|Chaplain (6th Ed.)
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ChaplainMini2.jpg|Chaplain (4th Ed.)
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Chaplain2006.jpg|Chaplain (4th Ed.)
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M1240880 99060101335 SMChaplainskullhelmetmain 873x627.jpg|Chaplain{{Fn|34}} (4th Ed.)
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Chaplain2nd.jpg|Chaplain (2nd Ed.)
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Chaplain43.jpg|Chaplain (2nd Ed.)
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Chaplainpg30.jpg|Chaplain (2nd Ed.)
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Chaplain1stedition.jpg|Chaplain (1st Ed.)
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Chaplain1st2.jpg|Chaplain (1st Ed.){{Fn|24}}
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Chaplain1st4.jpg|Chaplain (1st Ed.){{Fn|24}}
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Chaplain1st3.jpg|Chaplain (1st Ed.){{Fn|24}}
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</gallery></center>
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==See also==
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*[[Chaplain Dreadnought]]
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*[[Overseer]]
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*[[Consul-Opsequiari]]
  
 
==Sources==
 
==Sources==
−
*[[Codex: Space Marines (4th Edition)]]
+
*1: [[Codex: Dark Angels (6th Edition)]]:
−
*[[Codex: Chaos Space Marines (4th Edition)]]
+
**{{Endn|1a}}: pg. 30
−
*[[Index Astartes II]]
+
**{{Endn|1b}}: pg. 77
−
*[[Index Astartes III]]
+
*2: [[Fear to Tread (Novel)]]:
 +
**{{Endn|2a}}: Chapter One
 +
**{{Endn|2b}}: Chapter Two
 +
*{{Endn|3}}: [[The First Heretic (Novel)]], {{Cite Marker End}} pg. 175
 +
*{{Endn|4}}: [[Distant Echoes of Old Night (Short Story)]]
 +
*5: [[The Horus Heresy Book Two - Massacre]]:
 +
**{{Endn|5a}}: pgs. 136-141
 +
**{{Endn|5b}}: pg. 253
 +
*{{Endn|6}}: [[Lost Sons (Short Story)]]
 +
*{{Endn|7}}: [[Clan Raukaan - A Codex: Space Marines Supplement]] - ''The Clan Companies''
 +
*8: [[Imperial Armour Volume Ten - The Badab War - Part Two]]:
 +
**{{Endn|8a}}: pgs. 84-86
 +
**{{Endn|8b}}: pg. 176
 +
*{{Endn|9}}: [[Black Crusade: Angel's Blade]], pg. 105
 +
*{{Endn|10}}: [[Codex: Space Marines (8th Edition)]], pg. 145
 +
*{{Endn|11}}: [[Codex: Grey Knights (8th Edition)]], pg. 31
 +
*{{Endn|12}}: [[Codex: Space Marines (8th Edition, 2nd Codex)]], pg. 65
 +
*{{Endn|13}}: [https://www.warhammer-community.com/2019/04/14/your-new-store-opening-miniature-berek-the-indomitable/ Warhammer Community: Your New Store Opening Miniature – Berek the Indomitable (posted 04/03/2019)] ''(last accessed 21 November 2019)''
 +
*{{Endn|14}}: [https://www.warhammer-community.com/2016/12/16/made-to-order-on-christmas-day/ Warhammer Community: Made to Order on Christmas Day! 16-Dec-2016] ''(last accessed 18 March 2020)''
 +
*{{Endn|15}}: [https://www.warhammer-community.com/2020/06/13/warhammer-40000-preview-whats-in-the-boxgw-homepage-post-1/ Warhammer Community: Warhammer 40,000 Preview – What’s in the Box? (posted 13/06/2020)] ''(last accessed 13 June 2020)''
 +
*{{Endn|16}}: [https://www.warhammer-community.com/2020/07/04/warhammer-40000-preview-new-models-revealed/ Warhammer Community: Warhammer 40,000 Preview: New Models Revealed! (posted 07/04/2020)] ''(last accessed 04 July 2020)''
 +
*{{Endn|17}}: [https://www.warhammer-community.com/2020/10/12/coming-soon-warhammer-day-2020/ Warhammer Community: Coming Soon: Warhammer Day 2020 (posted 12/10/2020)] ''(last accessed 12 October 2020)''
 +
*{{Endn|18}}: [[Warhammer 40,000 Compendium]], pg. 23
 +
*{{Endn|19}}: [[Index Astartes II]] - ''Space Marine Chaplains''
 +
*{{Endn|20}}: [[Codex: Space Marines (4th Edition)]], pg. 28
 +
*{{Endn|21}}: [[Indomitus (Novel)]], Chapter 1
 +
*{{Endn|22}}: [[Of Honour and Iron (Novel)]], Chapter Eight
 +
*{{Endn|23}}: [[Dark Millennium (game system)|Warhammer 40,000: Dark Millennium]] - '''''Prophecy's Peril'''''
 +
*{{Endn|24}}: [[White Dwarf 108 (UK)]], pg. 47
 +
*{{Endn|25}}: [[Codex: Blood Angels (5th Edition)]], pgs. 43-45
 +
*{{Endn|26}}: [[Black Crusade: Traitor's Hate]], pgs. 51-52
 +
*{{Endn|27}}: [[The Devastation of Baal (Novel)]], Chapter 6
 +
*{{Endn|28}}: [[Codex: Black Templars (4th Edition)]], pgs. 46-47
 +
*{{Endn|29}}: [[Sons of Dorn (Novel)]], Chapter 7
 +
*{{Endn|30}}: [[Codex Supplement: Ultramarines (8th Edition)]], pg. 43
 +
*{{Endn|31}}: [[Codex: Space Wolves (5th Edition)]], pg. 31
 +
*{{Endn|32}}: [[White Dwarf 249 (UK)]], pg. 7
 +
*{{Endn|33}}: [[White Dwarf 133 (UK)]], ''front cover art''
 +
*{{Endn|34}}: [[Space Marines Collectors Guide]], pgs. 14-15
 +
*{{Endn|35}}: [[Codex: Black Templars (4th Edition)]], pg. 52
 +
*{{Endn|36}}: [https://web.archive.org/web/20210405001356/https://www.games-workshop.com/en-WW/Dark-Angels-Interrogator-Chaplain-2017?_requestid=12144623 Games Workshop Interrogator Chaplain (archived 4/4/2021)] ''(last accessed 04 April 2021)''
 +
*{{Endn|37}}: [https://web.archive.org/web/20210405001324/https://www.games-workshop.com/en-JP/Blood-Angels-Chaplain-with-Jump-Pack-2020 Games Workshop Death Company Chaplain (archived 04/04/2021)] ''(last accessed 04 April 2021)''
 +
*{{Endn|38}}: https://www.games-workshop.com/en-SE/horus-heresy-space-marine-heroes?_requestid=21409834
 +
*{{Endn|39}}: [https://www.warhammer-community.com/2019/06/12/who-are-the-emperors-spearsgw-homepage-post-4/ Warhammer Community]
 +
*{{Endn|40}}: [https://www.warhammer-community.com/2023/08/31/nova-open-previews-space-marine-terminators-fire-up-the-teleport-homer-and-prepare-for-rapid-ingress/ Warhammer Community: NOVA Open Previews – Space Marine Terminators Fire Up the Teleport Homer and Prepare for Rapid Ingress (posted 31/08/2023)] ''(last accessed 31 August 2023)''
 +
*{{Endn|41}}: [https://archive.ph/ech1Q Warhammer Community: The Execrator will make sure you keep your vow to kill absurd amounts of heretics] ''(archived from [https://www.warhammer-community.com/en-gb/articles/gfdvs4yb/the-execrator-will-make-sure-you-keep-your-vow-to-kill-absurd-amounts-of-heretics/ the original] 23 June 2025, last accessed 23 June 2025)''
 +
*{{Endn|42}}: [[Codex: Chaos Space Marines (6th Edition)]], pg. 35
 +
 
 +
===Uncited===
 +
*[[Warhammer 40,000: Compendium]], Chaplains & Commissars
 +
*[[Codex: Chaos Space Marines (3rd Edition, 2nd Codex)]], {{Cite Marker End}}
 +
*[[Index Astartes II]], {{Cite Marker End}}
 +
*[[Index Astartes III]], {{Cite Marker End}}
 +
 
 +
{{SMInfantry}}
 +
 
 +
[[Category:Chaplains| ]]
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[[Category:Titles and Ranks]]
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[[Category:Troops (Space Marines)]]
  
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==Related Articles==
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[[de:Ordenspriester]]
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*[[List of Chaplains]]
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[[fr:Chapelain]]
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*[[Space Marine Army List]]
 
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[[Category:Space Marines]]
 

Latest revision as of 09:59, 16 March 2026

A Firstborn Chaplain of the Dark Angels.[1a]

Space Marine Chaplains are the spiritual leaders of Space Marine Chapters.

Warrior-priests, they fight alongside their battle-brothers, chanting the Chapter's sacred battle creeds, and inspiring their brethren to greater feats of bravery. To enemies they appear as terrifying and sinister figures in black power armour and skull-visaged helmets.[10]

Overview

Each Chapter has its own unique cult, which is often thousands of years old. As these cults often predate the rise of the Ecclesiarchy, the Chapter cults are not simply facets of the common Imperial Cult. While the Ecclesiarchy and its lay followers worship the Emperor of Mankind as a deity, several Chapter cults regard him as merely a brilliant and inspirational man, though with scarcely less reverence. As in all things, this view of the Emperor's divinity, or lack thereof, varies from Chapter to Chapter. The chapter's own Primarch is also a major part of the Chapter's specific cult, revered as much as the Emperor.[19]

A formal sign of entente between the Ecclesiarchy and the Space Marines is the rosarius, a holy symbol, taking the form of a necklace, amulet or brooch which often displays the Imperial Eagle or the Crux Terminatus, or other shapes to suit the particular devotional qualities of the Chapter concerned (for example, the Space Wolves and their wolf iconography). Gifted to Space Marine Chaplains by the Ecclesiarchy, this blessing represents the brotherhood of the Imperial Faith and formally marks the continuance of religious concord between the two groups. In practice, though, the link between the organisations remains rather tenuous.[19]

History

During the Great Crusade, the Emperor specifically outlawed religious worship of any kind, but several Space Marine Legions still employed spiritual advisors of some kind. The first known Space Marines who bore a resemblance to Chaplains were members of the XVIIth Legion, known as the Imperial Heralds. The Legion's 'heralds' wore black armour with a skull-faced helmet and a winged mace and delivered the Emperor's ultimatum to new worlds: submission or destruction.[5a] After the Primarch Lorgar joined the XVIIth, renaming them the Word Bearers, he created a role for spiritual advisors, referring to them as 'Chaplains', who were assigned to minister to their brothers' psychological needs.[2b] Like the heralds, these Chaplains carried a skull-faced helmet and a winged mace but initially wore the same colours as other Word Bearer Legionaries. They later repainted their armour black in remembrance of the ashes of Monarchia.[3]

Similar positions also existed in other Legions, such as the Blood Angels Wardens, who served as the watchmen of the Blood Angels, serving as mentors and guides for the younger members of the Blood Angels, but also charged with upholding the laws of the IX Legion. These duties were varied, from offering a Captain advice on tactical doctrine, to leading a ceremony of remembrance for fallen Space Marines.[2a] Wardens also wore all-black armour and carried the Crozius Arcanum as a weapon.[2a][6] The Salamanders also had a body of chosen Legionaries who carried out the direct promulgation of the doctrines of Vulkan, shaped by the culture of Nocturne, called the 'Voices of Fire'.[5b] The Iron Hands' role of Iron Father, which combines the position of Chaplain and Techmarine was brought into the legion from an order of engineer-mystics who maintained Dark Age of Technology machinery on Medusa, following the re-discovery of Ferrus Manus.[7]

After the Decree of Nikaea, Lorgar offered his Chaplains' services to the other Legions. These Chaplains travelled among the Legions to counsel former Librarians who felt uncomfortable at the loss of their psychic role, and ease them back into duty as ordinary Battle-Brothers. Many Primarchs accepted Lorgar's offer, the use of Chaplains spread to legions such as the Dark Angels, Emperor's Children, World Eaters, and the Death Guard [4]. Other Primarchs such as Sanguinius declined, the duties being given to the already existing Wardens.[6]

Following the Horus Heresy, the position of Chaplain continued in both Loyalist and Traitor Legions, those in the Traitor Legions becoming known as Dark Apostles.[42]

Responsibilities within a Chapter

Chaplains are the most well-versed in the knowledge of the Chapter's cult. This knowledge is put to practical use as Chaplains are responsible for the spiritual health, discipline, and faith of the chapter brethren. The bond between Marines and their Chaplains is a strong one. Chaplains are present in a Marine's life from the moment he is chosen as a neophyte, presiding over their indoctrination as they progress toward becoming full battle-brothers.[19]

Within a Chapter's fortress-monastery is the Reclusiam, a large chamber devoted to cult activities, and where the Chapter's holy relics and, sometimes, the body of its Primarch are housed. The Chaplains lead their sermons from here, and rouse the Marines in their love of the Emperor. The Battle Barges and ships of the Chapter's fleet also include huge cathedrals in the heart of each ship, allowing the Space Marines to pray while away from the fortress. Chaplains always lead the Space Marines in prayer, but a Chaplain is not always needed for a Marine to pray.[19]

Each Space Marine Company has its own Chaplain. Chaplains begin their careers as Judiciars within the Chapter.[21] At the headquarters level of the Chapter organisation are Chaplains holding the ranks of Reclusiarch and Master of Sanctity, whose responsibilities extend to the Chapter as a whole.[19]

Wargear

Imperial Fist Primaris Chaplain battles the Horrors of Tzeentch

The power armour suits worn by Chaplains are considered holy in themselves. Often they are hundreds, if not thousands, of years old. A Chaplain's armour is highly stylised and archaic in appearance. Black is the colour associated with Chaplains, and most or all of their armour is painted in this colour, but not all.[20] Know variation are fully silver.[33]

Symbols such as skulls and Imperial eagles commonly adorn the armour, but Chapter-specific symbols are also used. The face plate or the entire helmet is traditionally skull-shaped. Skulls are also repeated throughout a Chaplain's armour - adorning an entire shoulder plate, the upper chest armour or the groin guard. One area of the armour, such as a shoulder guard, is always left in the Chapter colours, displaying the Chapter symbol. Part of the Chaplain's formal regalia is the Crozius Arcanum, the Chaplain's staff of office. Used in chapter ceremonies and worship, many Chaplains take them into battle, symbolizing that battle is the highest ritual of the Chapter. The crozius is usually topped with an Imperial Eagle or winged skull. It incorporates a potent energy field, allowing it to be used as a weapon; one that will punch through armour easily, showing the power of faith.[20]

In many Chapters, once a Space Marine is inducted into the Chaplaincy, they are forbidden to remove their helmets while in the presence of those who are not of their order.[22]

The Rosarius that Chaplains wear around their neck incorporates a powerful force field generator, offering the bearer protection against weapons that even power armour would offer no hope of survival against. In light of this, the rosarius is sometimes referred to as a Chaplain's "soul armour."[19]

Chapter Variations

As each chapter has its own distinct cult, the specific roles of Chaplains can vary from Chapter to Chapter. The most notable differences in the roles of Chaplains of different Chapters are as follows:

Black Templars

The Black Templars have their own variant of Chaplain in the form of Execrators, who serve as frontline battlefield warriors to inspire others with their righteous rage.[41]

Blood Angels

The Chaplains of the Blood Angels chapter constantly watch their brothers for the onset of the Black Rage. Only the Chaplains can communicate successfully with those unfortunates who have succumbed to the Rage and so lead them in battle as the Death Company, fearsome warriors whose demise is assured. They also care for those who completely succumb to the Red Thirst, and are rumoured to look after those who are locked away on their homeworld, Baal. The Blood Angels' chaplains also share responsibility for their battle-brothers' spiritual health with the chapter's apothecaries, known as Sanguinary Priests.[25]

The Death Company of the Blood Angels maintains its own special variant of the Chaplain, the Death Company Chaplain. These officers provide sanity amidst the carnage and rage of the Death Company.[9]

Dark Angels

Although the Dark Angels have normal Chaplains, above the company level are specialised Chaplains known as Interrogator-Chaplains, who form part of the chapter's Inner Circle. Their primary task is hunting down the Fallen, their damned brethren, and forcing them to repent, which usually involves torture.[1a]

This highly confidential mission makes the Interrogator-Chaplains a secretive and somewhat sinister group. Once a member of the Fallen has been captured, it is the duty of the Interrogator-Chaplains to force the prisoner to confess and repent. Those who repent are spared further torture and receive a painless death. Those who hold to their innocence are exorcised of their sins through excruciation and death.[1a]

A Chaplain of the Black Templars[23]

Emperor's Spears

The Emperor's Spears group together their Chaplains, Librarians, Techmarines and Apothecaries under the term Druids. These warrior-priests each stand ready to harvest the gene-seed of fallen brothers, as well as performing their own duties based on their specialist skills and esoteric abilities. [39]

Executioners

The Executioners assign three chaplains, instead of just one, to each company. Each trio of Chaplains is known as the Death Speakers and are charged with maintaining the roll of the dead, and ensuring order within the chapter.[8a]

Iron Hands

The Iron Hands use the specialised rank of Iron Father, combining the roles of Chaplain and Techmarine. Iron Fathers hold a particular reverence for the mechanical, and are rumoured to spend time on Mars as guests of the Adeptus Mechanicus during their training. It is said that they venerate the Machine God aspect of the Emperor ahead of any other version, which does not please the Ecclesiarchy at all. Due to this animosity between the Iron Hands and the Ecclesiarchy, the Iron Fathers are not issued with a rosarius and they must instead manufacture their own versions of the protective holy symbol.[7]

Space Wolves

Within the Space Wolves, the Wolf Priests combine the roles of Chaplain and Apothecary. They minister to both the spiritual and physical well-being of their brethren, and are completely responsible for all parts of the recruitment and indoctrination of new Space Wolves. As a result, individual Wolf Priests can regularly be seen traveling across the surface of Fenris, watching the proud natives for those who show the potential to become one of the Imperium's mightiest warriors.[31]

Grey Knights

Grey Knights Chaplains are given the duty of ensuring the mental fortitude of the Chapter's warriors against all things Daemonic. They are also focuses of the Emperor's anti-daemonic might.[11]

Primaris Chaplains

Primaris Chaplain[12]

The new generation of Space Marine, Primaris Space Marines, also utilize the rank of Chaplain. Besides their standard Crozius, Primaris Chaplains are frequently seen wielding an Absolvor Bolt Pistol.[10]

Notable Space Marine Chaplains

Main article: List of Chaplains

Images

Chaplains in Terminator Armour


Chaplains on Bikes

  • Primaris Chaplain on Bike (9th Edition)[16]

  • Chaplain on Bike (2nd Edition)[14]


Chaplains

  • Primaris Chaplain (9th Edition)[15]

  • Primaris Chaplain[34]

  • Chaplain (6th Ed.)

  • Chaplain (4th Ed.)

  • Chaplain (4th Ed.)

  • Chaplain[34] (4th Ed.)

  • Chaplain (2nd Ed.)

  • Chaplain (2nd Ed.)

  • Chaplain (2nd Ed.)

  • Chaplain (1st Ed.)

  • Chaplain (1st Ed.)[24]

  • Chaplain (1st Ed.)[24]

  • Chaplain (1st Ed.)[24]

See also

Sources

Uncited


Space Marine Infantry
Chapter Command Chapter Master • Master of Sanctity • Chief Librarian • Master of the Apothecarion • Master of the Forge • Master (Master of the Watch • Master of the Fleet • Master of the Arsenal • Master of the Marches • Master of the Rites • Master of Relics • Lord Executioner • Master of Recruits • Master of the Signal • Master of Reconnaissance) • Chapter Ancient (Primaris Ancient) • Chapter Champion • Honour Guard
Company Command Company Command Squad • Reclusiam Command Squad • Captain (Primaris Captain) • Lieutenant (Primaris Lieutenant • Vanguard Lieutenant) • Company Ancient (Bladeguard Ancient) • Company Champion
Specialists Librarian (Epistolary • Codicier • Lexicanum • Primaris Librarian • Vanguard Librarian) • Chaplain (Reclusiarch • Primaris Chaplain • Judiciar) • Apothecary (Primaris Apothecary • Helix Adept) • Techmarine (Primaris Techmarine)
Veteran Squads Sternguard Veteran Squad • Vanguard Veteran Squad • Terminator Squad (Terminator Assault Squad) • Bladeguard Veteran • Veteran Intercessor Squad • Company Veterans
Battleline Squads Tactical Squad • Intercessor Squad (Heavy Intercessor Squad) • Infiltrator Squad
Close Support Squads Assault Squad • Assault Intercessor Squad • Jump Pack Intercessor Squad • Inceptor Squad • Infernus Squad • Reiver Squad • Incursor Squad • Assault Centurion Squad
Fire Support Squads Devastator Squad • Hellblaster Squad • Aggressor Squad • Eliminator Squad • Suppressor Squad • Eradicator Squad • Desolation Squad • Devastator Centurion Squad
Scouts Scout Squad
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