Horus Heresy Heats Up: MKII Assault Squad and Journal Tactica: The Forges of Saturn Lead the Charge

The fires of the Horus Heresy burn ever brighter with the release of two major additions to the Warhammer: The Horus Heresy – Age of Darkness range. From brutal frontline warriors clad in the iconic MkII Crusade Armour to a deep-dive into the techno-theological crucibles of Saturn, this week offers something special for collectors, hobbyists, and loremasters alike.

New MKII Assault Squad – Classic Power Reforged

The latest arrival to the Horus Heresy battlefield is the Legiones Astartes MKII Assault Squad, a multi-part plastic kit containing 10 detailed miniatures clad in updated Crusade Armour. This release revives a fan-favorite design with enhanced durability and battlefield flair, suited to the furious tempo of close-range warfare.

Key Features of the MKII Assault Squad:

• 10 Assault Marines in MkII Crusade Armour

• Default loadout of chainaxe and bolt pistol, offering a classic, aggressive melee profile

• Optional combat shields for those who prefer a defensive edge

• Additional weaponry, including:

  • 2x Power Mauls

  • 2x Heavy Chainaxes

  • 2x Volkite Serpenta

  • 2x Disintegrator Pistols

  • 2x Melta Bombs

• Accessory sprue with grenades, holsters, and pouches for battlefield customization

This squad combines rich aesthetics with in-game versatility. In terms of rules, the chainaxe is a points-free alternative to the chainsword, perfect for aggressive, points-efficient builds. You’ll find full stats and customization options for the MKII Assault Squad in the Liber Astartes and Liber Hereticus rulebooks.

Whether you’re assembling a fresh Legion or reinforcing an existing force, this kit is a must-have for anyone who wants to bring the raw, close-combat fury of the Great Crusade to the tabletop.

Journal Tactica: The Forges of Saturn—Lore and War Collide

The second volume in the Journal Tactica series for Horus Heresy fans, The Forges of Saturn, explores the overlooked yet pivotal role of Saturn and its forges during the unfolding galactic civil war. This supplement is rich in narrative depth and mechanical enhancements for campaign and matched play alike.

Highlights from The Forges of Saturn:

• Vulkan’s Legacy: Chronicles how the Primarch of the Salamanders played a critical role in the reintroduction of Saturnine-pattern Terminator Armour

• Major Lore Threads:

  • The Saturnine Renewal

  • The War of Bitter Iron between the Word Bearers and Iron Hands

  • The Kolarne-Distal Incident, where White Scars and Thousand Sons came to blows

• Gameplay Content:

  • 3 Asymmetrical Onslaught Missions, introducing dynamic challenges

  • 2 New Legiones Astartes Detachments

  • New unit profiles for:

    • Saturnine Command Squad

    • Centurion in Saturnine Armour

    • Phraetus Anointed Conclave (exclusive to Word Bearers)

  • Thousand Sons Arcana Upgrade for units equipped with Saturnine Armour

This supplement provides not just mechanical depth but also rich storytelling to enhance narrative play, particularly for campaigns set in Saturn’s orbit or involving its key factions.

A New Era Dawns in the Age of Darkness

With the release of the MKII Assault Squad and Journal Tactica: The Forges of Saturn, Warhammer: The Horus Heresy continues to evolve—blending iconic visual design with deep strategic options and immersive lore. Whether you’re a narrative gamer, competitive commander, or hobbyist looking for stunning new models, this is an ideal time to expand your army and your knowledge of the conflict that shattered the Imperium.

Keep your bolter close and your forge hot. The Age of Darkness is just beginning.