The battlefield groans under the weight of advancing tanks, the thunderous roar of artillery echoing across the wastelands. In the midst of the chaos, a sea of steel clad warriors surges forward, their bayonets glinting in the harsh sunlight. These are the soldiers of the Astra Militarum, the Emperor’s finest, the bulwark against the forces of chaos and the darkness that threatens to consume the galaxy. You, brave commander, find yourself tasked with leading these soldiers into battle, building a force that can meet this growing threat head-on. A daunting task, to be sure, but one where the Emperor’s might can be unleashed. And with a 500-point list at your disposal, the foundation for a truly formidable force can be laid.
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This guide serves as your beacon, illuminating the path to building a potent and adaptable 500-point Astra Militarum list in 2023. We will explore the different units at your disposal, delve into the intricacies of their abilities, and provide insights into how to maximize their effectiveness on the battlefield. With every strategic choice you make, you’ll be molding a force that echoes the unwavering spirit of the Astra Militarum – a force that fights for the Emperor, for humanity, and for the very soul of the galaxy.
The Backbone of the Astra Militarum: Choosing Your Troops
At the heart of your 500-point Astra Militarum army lies the infantry. These fearless soldiers, each representing the indomitable spirit of humanity, form the bedrock upon which your forces stand. There’s no single right way to build your troop force, but let’s delve into the strengths of each option.
The Stalwart Infantry Squad:
A unit of 10 Infantry Squad members, equipped with their signature Lasguns and the ever-reliable bayonet charge, forms the staple of your army. The infantry are cheap to field and offer surprising resilience, proving themselves adept at both open firefights and close-quarters combat. Their flexibility shines when bolstered by a Chimera transports or other support units that enhance their firepower.
The Reliable Veteran Squad:
For a more experienced and robust infantry option, explore the Veterans Squad. Offering a wider array of weaponry, including the versatile Plasma Gun, the Veterans can be tailored for specific roles. While slightly more expensive than standard Infantry, their increased resilience and firepower make them invaluable.
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The Fearsome Ogryn:
For brutal close-quarters combat, look no further than the Ogryn. These towering, ferocious warriors are a force to be reckoned with, equipped with heavy weapons that can shatter enemy shields and rip through flesh. Their destructive potential makes them a potent addition to your army.
*Reinforcing the Lines: Support Troops to Bolster Your Army*
Beyond frontline infantry, you need support units to provide critical fire support and bolster your lines. Below we examine some key choices available to you:
The Versatile Chimera:
The Chimera is a versatile workhorse, capable of transporting infantry and delivering accurate firepower through its standard Lascannon or Heavy Bolter. It is often seen on the battlefield supporting infantry squads, its presence adding both firepower and a crucial layer of tactical mobility.
The Devastating Mortar Team:
For devastating indirect fire, the Mortar Team is a potent choice. They deliver explosive payloads with pinpoint accuracy, capable of crippling enemy units at a distance. This makes them ideal for supporting infantry advances or hindering the enemy’s movement.
The Heavy Weapon Platoon:
Heavy Weapons Platoons deliver sustained firepower with their Lascannon, Missile Launcher, or Autocannon, making them a valuable force multiplier for your army. Remember, Heavy Weapon Teams are immobile, so consider a strategic deployment to best utilize their devastating potential.
The Fearsome Artillery Unit:
If you seek a unit to devastate the enemy with a barrage of destruction, consider the Artillery Unit. Their relentless bombardment can inflict heavy casualties, but their long range and indirect fire mean they are best utilized tactically. Planning their placement on the battlefield is key to maximizing their effectiveness.
*Adding Flexibility: Elites and HQ Choices*
With your core troop and support choices made, you can now add vital leadership and special forces to increase your army’s tactical depth.
The Indispensable HQ Choice
The HQ slot opens up a variety of valuable commanders, each with their own unique abilities and strengths. A regiment commander with a command squad can provide invaluable command presence on the battlefield, rallying your forces and inspiring them to greater feats of courage.
The Fearsome Special Forces:
Within the Elite slot, you can deploy specialized units to add a touch of dynamism to your army. Consider the devastating power of a Heavy Weapons Squad or the tactical flexibility of a Commissar, with his ability to bolster the fighting spirit of your troops through his fearsome authority.
*Strategic Deployment: Unleashing the Astra Militarum’s Might*
With a 500-point army at your disposal, you have the resources to build a potent force. A solid foundation is formed by having multiple squads of troops, supported by Chimeras to transport and bolster them. A mortar team or Heavy Weapon Platoon can provide sustained firepower, while artillery can be used to devastate the enemy at a distance. Your HQ can lead your troops with a command squad, while Elites like a Commissar can bolster morale and further inspire your troops. Remember to position your units wisely, taking full advantage of their strengths and weaknesses to meet the challenges ahead.
*Adapting to the Enemy: Strategies for Success*
The Astra Militarum thrives on adaptability. While some may perceive it as rigid, its strength lies in its versatility. Remember that your 500-point list is not set in stone – it should adapt to the threat you face.
- Against Tau: Leverage your firepower to counter their advanced weaponry and technology. Focus on long-range engagements and rely on your heavy weapons and artillery to soften up their positions.
- Against Necrons: Capitalize on the Necron’s reliance on technology by prioritizing firepower. Utilize your heavy weapons and artillery to break their lines, and be ready to deploy squads of Veterans to take out their key characters.
- Against Tyranids: The sheer overwhelming numbers of the Tyranids will force you to be resourceful. Use your firepower to attrition their swarms, deploy your Ogryns, who can be invaluable in close-quarters combat to stall their advance.
500 Point Astra Militarum List 2023
*The Emperor’s Will: A Call to Action*
The battlefields of the galaxy are vast, and the forces of chaos and darkness are eager to consume them. Your 500-point Astra Militarum force stands ready to fight for the Emperor, for humanity, and for the very soul of the galaxy. With careful planning and strategic execution, you have the tools to build a force that can meet any challenge head-on.
Remember, as a commander of the Astra Militarum, you are not just a strategist, but a leader. Your soldiers are your testament to the indomitable spirit of humanity, and it is your responsibility to guide them to victory. This is your duty, your honor, your legacy. Lead them forth, and show the galaxy what it truly means to be a soldier of the Emperor!
