Mark 0

The suit seen here dates from the time of the Horus Heresy civil war and is primitive by today’s
standards. The Heresy tore mankind in two and wrecked much of the Imperium’s infrastructure and
manufacturing capabilities. As a result the quality of Marine armour suffered as Chapters’
manufacturing facilities were destroyed or deprived of raw materials. In addition to these crippling
restrictions, demand for new suits and replacement parts increased as every Marine in every
Chapter was constantly in action. Thus, improvised forms of protection were employed and both
standard Marine suits and Terminator armour from this period often look medieval. The chainmail
and re-enforced leather straps serve to protect the vulnerable joints in the groin and arm pits. Rivets
were needed to secure the armour plates as the materials required for a more flush appearance were
scarce. Even the design of the shoulder pads was a product of restricted manufacturing methods –
their curvature is much reduced from the traditional “dome” shape which is time-consuming and
costly to fabricate. Despite these hindrances, the Terminator suits made during the Heresy
performed well and the fact that a handful are still in existence today is testament to the skills of the
Chapter Artifaciers.

Notes & Sources:

These suits feature in the Horus Heresy CCG artwork. They are obviously designed so as to convey
the limitations of the technology that existed in what was the distant past of the Warhammer 40,000
universe. The liberal use of rivets, leather and chainmail all serve this purpose, though it is
interesting to note that with the current re-draft of the Space Marines (and in particular with the
Ultramarines) such classical and medieval design elements are being introduced into the “new”
Legiones Astartes warriors. It is unlikely we will see hard copies of these proto-terminators.

Mark 01
In the wake of the Horus Heresy Space Marine Artifaciers experimented with several bold new
designs for Terminator armour, and this is one of them. A cursory glance reveals that it is made for
frontal protection. The huge shoulder pads and sunken helm afford maximum defence from enemy
fire. Such was the bulk of the armour that all necessary cabling is very prominent. Each tube
contains multiple cooling ducts and fibre bundle relays. Though it looks unfamiliar one can see
traits of later Terminator design in gestative form. The tubular ribbing on the edges of the armour
plates, the high mounting of the shoulders and heavy boots are all recognisable. The disk on the left
shoulder pad was where the Chapter icon was displayed. The nature of the design on the plastron
has been fiercely debated by Imperial art historians – some say the design is a pair of stylised eagle
wings while others contest that the resemblance is coincidental and they are ribs that reinforce the
chest plate. Very few of these suits remain today, and those that still function are venerated and
reserved exclusively for ceremonial use. The most cogent hypothesis as to its demise is that its bulk
was simply too great and the Mark 2 design, which was being developed concurrently, proved more
successful.

Notes & Sources:

The label of “Mark 1” is speculative – this design appeared briefly in the literature in conjunction
with the design labelled “Mark 2”. These terms have been assigned, quite reasonably, on stylistic
grounds. Note the design of the elbow joints – this was a common feature on both the elbows and
knees of the first standard Space Marine suits.

The back banner is part that was originally included, but is very hard to come buy due to the size
and breakage, making a complete Mk1 a very rare occurrence.

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Mark 2

Quite different from its predecessor, we begin to see clearly the distinctive Terminator shape with
the reduction in size of the shoulders and a more hunched stance. This is due to superior heat ducts
being mounted behind the shoulders. Another practical advantage of this was that the Mark 2
armour could fit into smaller spaces – an important fact given the space hulk and Hive world
cleansing missions Marines were assigned to. Interestingly, the tubing on armour edges was
replaced in this phase with a more geometric pattern of reinforcements. The abandonment of this
feature and re-installation of the tubes in the Mark 3 prototype suggests the design was
unsuccessful.

Notes & Sources:

Again, this phase only appeared for a brief period. The general look is very reminiscent of the Mark
1 Imperial dreadnought – the rectilinear design elements on the limbs, the very rounded shoulders,
rather blank face mask and (most notably) the shape of the eye lenses. Though some literature
depicts these suits carrying standard bolters, other sources show two tubular weapons attached to
the outside of the right gauntlet. This is a feature reminiscent of the twin bolters mounted in a
similar position on the Contemptor (or “Chuck”) class Mark 1 dreadnought. The down-turned grill
“mouth” is also a feature of note. This is one of the first instances of the eventual redesign of the
Marine “beak” faceplate culminating in the arrival of the Mark 7 standard Space Marine suits.

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Mark 3 Prototype
Here we can finally see an unmistakable Terminator design. The body and shoulder pads are
separated and form the distinctive silhouette, the tubing has returned to reinforce the armour plates
and the structure of the limb exoskeleton is modernised. Now the culmination of two phases of
development, this was a fully functioning Tactical Dreadnought Armour suit with all major
problems behind it. Indeed, further phases only tweaked the design. The success of the
repositioning of the cooling units was capitalised upon, allowing further chest protection to be
added. The load-bearing aspects of the design were so effective that the now standard Terminator
weaponry was designated – a Storm Bolter and a massive Power Glove, a combination too bulky
for standard Marine armour.

Notes & Sources:

Yet again this version appeared only for a short while. It was the design used whilst the first edition
of Space Hulk was in pre-production and is featured in much of the artwork and promo material. In
it we see a fully fledged Terminator with respect to the limbs and trunk, and recognisable helmet
design. The latter was subsequently dropped from Tactical Dreadnought Armour, but re-introduced
for Mark 7 standard Marine power armour.

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Mark 3a

This phase was the standard for Legiones Astartes for several thousand years before it was recently
overhauled. It is still commonly seen on the battlefield. It is essentially a Mark3 prototype with
visible modifications in the form of improved heat sink intakes (above the head) and a new helm.
So effective was its design that Terminators suits were employed for a far wider array of missions
than the tunnel-based actions they had previously been confined to. Developments in articulation
and balance systems mean that the suit is very versatile and broken, boggy and slippery ground no
longer prove hazardous. Hence Mark 3a suits have been used for trench warfare, desert conflicts,
ice-world pacifications and operations in the dense undergrowth of Agri Worlds.
Notes & Sources:
The Mark 3a was the first phase of Terminator development to be a “fully fledged” troop type. The
range includes captains, Librarians, Grey Knights, Inquisitors as well as Traitor variations (though
no Chapter-specific designs at this stage). It was also the first range to be augmented by an array of
weaponry. This includes close combat variations (Lightening Claws, Thunder Hammer &
Stormshield combinations, Power swords and Chain Fists) and heavy weaponry (Heavy Flamers,
Assault Cannon and Cyclone missile launchers) as well as psionic equipment. The elements retain a
slight curvilinear quality inherited from the Mark 1, which is the most visible way it differs from the
latest phase (Mark 3b). It is common for the large surfaces to sport chapter icons, personal heraldry
and kill markings. The feathered wings on the chest plastron are another feature that the Mark 7
standard Marine armour inherited from Terminator development.

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Mark 3b

This phase of Terminator armour development was really little more than a refinement of the Mark
3a design. Still common throughout the Legiones Astartes, components from the earlier Mark 3
series are fully compatible with these suits. Advances in plasteel technology allowed certain plates
to be sufficiently strong without reinforcing piped edges – noticeably demonstrated by the
smoothness of the shoulder pads. The only other visible feature of note is the addition of a small
module mounted on the top and side of the uppermost heat duct aperture. Thus is HUD optics,
tracking and guidance systems device that has proved so effective it was included as standard on
these Terminator suits.

Notes & Sources:

Introduced with the Nordic-themed re-draft Space Wolf chapter, this is now the standard
Terminator design. Chapter specific bodies and arms are available for the Space Wolves and
Deathwing, and arms for the Imperial Fists/Crimson Fists. In appearance it is generally cleaner and
less cluttered than the Mark 3a and with its emergence the design of many of the weapon systems
was overhauled in keeping with this aesthetic. Most notably the Heavy Flamer for the Mark 3b
range uses more rectilinear elements than its predecessor. Characters have been introduced in this
phase, including Terminator Captains, Sergeants, Chaplains and Librarians and heavily detailed
Traitor Chaos-Undivided versions have been produced.

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Mark 3c

This is the latest stage of development of Terminator armour and, again, is little more than a
refinement of the Mark 3 series. Increasing reports of damage to the vulnerable hip joints have
prompted the inclusion of dedicated shields whilst the ever-important chest plastron has again been
modified. New advances in gyro systems for balance are incorporated – the evidence for which can
only be seen by the small tubes that protrude at the suit’s ankles. The wrist joints are also improved
in their design. The HUD module is now bigger to accommodate the increased array of sensors and
lenses that allow greater synchronisation between the suit and the weapons.

Notes & Sources:

This recent overhaul of the Terminator design brings it into line with progress made in appearance
of the Space Marines in general. The suit is now bigger and takes on the “Anime” proportions
bestowed on the rest of the range – longer legs, wider shoulders and a bigger chest. The larger bases
and plastic component nature of the hard copies allows for more versatile poses especially in the
legs giving the suits more dynamism. The hip shields are inherited from the new Grey Knight
designs. Characters in Mark 3c suits are available, along with chapter variant terminators either
through full kits or conversion packs.

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Grey Knight Mark 1

The Grey Knight Terminators’ appearance reflects the Ordo Malleus’ unique purpose – daemon
hunting. The suits are covered with ward-runes, purity seals and prayer tomes to aid the wearer in
the fight against hostile spiritual entities. Personal heraldry is positively encouraged by the Chapter
adding a further layer of detail to the armour. A finely crafted Imperial Aegis helm is supplied as
standard to defend against psyonic assaults. In addition to their physical armour, all Grey Knights
carry a copy of the Liber Daemonica. This tome sets out the Chapter’s holy battle rights including
the most important facts of Daemon lore culled from the Ordo’s extensive library.

Notes & Sources:

The fist instances of Grey Knights were essentially re-tooled Mark 3a Librarians. The exact same
design was used with additional surface details and texture. They all carried the halberd type
Nemesis force weapon. No official colour scheme was given, but an attractive gilded version was
showcased.

Release Date: 1989

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Grey Knight Mark 2

Over the millennia the Ordo Malleus have adapted their Terminator armour to suit their unique
tasks. Hence they are now highly distinguishable from the standard Mark 3a design. The most
notable feature is the mask that shrouds the helm. This is an improved Aegis with new psychic
HUD technology incorporated into the left half. The ribbed design on some of the plates enables the
inclusion of psycho-conductive filaments akin to those found in the Aegis. This provides further
protection against psychic assaults. Careful examination also reveals that the bulk behind the
shoulders has been reduced due to advances in heat-sink technology.

Notes & Sources:

These are some of the most unusual and attractive Terminator suits to have been produced. They
were never well advertised and so are relatively uncommon. Again no official colour schemes were
listed resulting in a variety of livery. These include silver-and-brass combinations and striking
samurai interpretations. In addition to the halberd, a long sword version of the Nemesis was
produced.

Release Date: 1989

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Grey Knight Mark 3

So important are the tasks assigned to the Ordo Malleus that no expense is spared for their
equipment. All the latest technology is lavished on their Terminator suits and their appearance
reflects this. The wrist-mounted Stormbolter is a new design enabling the hand to be free to grasp
the long Nemeis force weapons. The bulk behind the shoulders is again reduced with further
advances in heat-sink technology, and a side-effect of this is that the head has more scope for
movement. The veterans who wear this armour are all psychers who need the utmost protection
from enemy mages. Thus a Terminator version of the Grey Knight’s aegis “jousting” helm is
employed. The flanged-edged shoulder pads are a design common to Marines in the Inquisition’s
service, including the Ordo Xenos’ Death Watch Chapter.

Notes & Sources:

The penultimate addition to the Terminator family, these Marines are the shape of things to come.
The stoic poses of previous incarnations are gone, with the use of larger bases allowing more
dynamic leg positions. It remains to be seen if any Ordo Xenos or Hereticus Terminators will
emerge.
Release Date: 2003

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Traitor Mark 3a

The virus bombing of Istvaan III mark the beginning of the Imperium’s descent into bloody civil
war – the Horus Heresy had begun. The Legions Astartes were not exempt from the schism that
divided mankind. Half the chapters turned against their brothers as they succumbed to the lure of
Chaos. Thus humanity’s finest equipment, designed to combat alien threats, was turned on its
creators and Terminator armour was a much sought after tool in this war of men. At first, traitor
legionnaires crudely daubed their armour with the colours and markings of Chaos, but as time
progressed the suits themselves were modified to show their wearer’s allegiance. Partly the work of
twisted rebel artificiers, partly the whim of the Chaos gods made physical, the suits’ designs reflect
the rank disorder of evil powers. Traitor Terminators are some of the most feared members of the
Chaos Marine raiding parties that now plague the Eastern fringes of the Imperium.
Notes & Sources:
Initially introduced as alternative troops for the first edition of Space Hulk, these suits quickly
found their way onto WH40K tabletops. Several Chaos Undivided bodies were produced as hard
copies, including a sergeant. Numerous weapons were made, all featuring grotesque design
modifications to distinguish them from their Loyalist cousins.

Release Date: 1990

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Traitor Mark 3b
During the Horus Heresy a number of the Adeptus Mechanicus warehouses on Mars fell to the
traitor legions. They pillaged the stock rooms and were able to equip many hundreds of traitor
legionnaires with the latest weapons, ammunition and equipment. Their main aim to secure suits of
the new Mark 6 standard Space Marine armour that had just rolled out across the Imperium, for its
use by loyalists was giving them the edge in combat. The traitors were surprised to come across a
new version of Terminator armour – the Mark 3b. Hence these suits found their way to the trenches
on the backs of the Chaos followers. The thousands of years that these vanquished troops have
spent under the influence of the Chaos gods in the Eye of Terror has warped their armour into
strange and twisted parodies of its former shape. The all too frequent addition of gruesome trophies
further distorts their appearance.

Notes & Sources:

The Mark3b traitor types are one of the newer additions to the Terminator range and Chaos
Undivided types have appeared as hard copies. They are encrusted with detail and their spiked
trophy racks and tusks make them highly distinguishable from the Loyalist suits. All the weapons
have been re-designed with the addition of chains, daemonic faces and Chaos sigils covering their
surfaces. The above image pictures a Khornate Terminator.

Release Date: Late 1990′s

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In the images above the original tabs have been removed and two of the heads are attatched to the
bodies, originally they were separate.
The box set contained the following:
– 5 bodies (3 variants)
– 5 heads (5 variants)
– 5 gun arms (Autocannon, combi-melta, combi-flamer, two different storm bolters)
– 5 close combat arms (Powerfist, chain axe, power mace, two chainfists)
– 10 shoulder spikes (5 left, 5 right, two variants per shoulder)

Traitor Mark 3c
This is the latest stage of development of Terminator armour and, again, is little more than a
refinement of the Mark 3 series. Increasing reports of damage to the vulnerable hip joints have
prompted the inclusion of dedicated shields whilst the ever-important chest plastron has again been
modified. New advances in gyro systems for balance are incorporated – the evidence for which can
only be seen by the small tubes that protrude at the suit’s ankles. The wrist joints are also improved
in their design. Naturally the Traitor Legions are able to keep up with the latest designs in the
armour through various ways, entire chapters can turn to Chaos bringing with them the newest
technology or the suits could be simply salvaged from battle.

Notes & Sources:

The new Plastic Chaos terminators brings the Chaos range up to date with the Imperial Terminators.
The suit is now bigger and takes on the “Anime” proportions bestowed on the rest of the range –
longer legs, wider shoulders and a bigger chest. The larger bases and plastic component nature of
the hard copies allows for more versatile poses especially in the legs giving the suits more
dynamism. The hip shields are inherited from the new Grey Knight and Imperial Terminator
designs. Characters in Mark 3c suits are available, however the older Characters such as Abaddon
are now starting to look too small. They are encrusted with detail and their spiked trophy racks and
tusks make them highly distinguishable from the Loyalist suits. All the weapons have been re-
designed with the addition of chains, daemonic faces and Chaos sigils covering their surfaces. One
point to note is the lack of the HUD. The Chaos suits somehow picked up the hip shields but not the
HUD in their design, this is probably due to the Trophy racks.
Conversion packs have been released by Forge World for power specific designs.

Release Date: 2007

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Ordo Malleus Inquisitor

There have been many pompous Imperial Governors who have desired a suit of Terminator armour
for their own personal aggrandizing, but such a prestigious status symbol has remained out of their
grasp for several reasons. The armour is expensive to maintain, the training needed to operate it is
long and the surgery required to integrate the wearer’s body with the on-board systems is complex.
However, the most insurmountable factor is that Terminator suits cannot simply be manufactured.
Much of the knowledge of how to make them has been lost and that which remains is privy only to
only the skilled Artifaciers of the Marine chapters. Consequently, most suits are inherited and are a
valuable resource that no Chapter would consider letting out of their stores.

The only group outside of the Index Astartes Space Marines who have access to Terminator armour
are Inquisitors. The Ordo Malleus wing of the Inquisition possesses its own Terminator suits used
by its chamber militant – the Grey Knights. Consequently the organisation does have the
knowledge, components and skills to equip its non-Marine servants – but only if their mission is
important and their influence strong. Indeed, the Ordo Malleus jealously guards its knowledge from
its sister Ordos; Xenos and Hereticus, as a consequence of the secret struggles and vendettas that
plague these supposedly companion institutions. Therefore Inquisitors dressed in Terminator
armour are almost exclusively Daemon hunters.

Like the Grey Knight’s suits, Malleus Inquisitors’ armour is highly decorated and sports a vast array
of ward sigils, reliquaries and charms to fend of the infernal threats they face. Psychic apparatus is
often incorporated, and weapons might include the rarest examples of Psycannons, Force Rods and
Combi-Weapons. Indeed, some Inquisitors have been known to include their most precious Jokaero
digital weapons into their suit’s arsenal.

Notes & Sources:

The illustration depicts one of two hard copies that were produced in the early 90s, contemporary
with the Mark 3a range. Of interest is that the iconography of the Inquisition had not yet been fully
established, so this example does not feature the three-crossed-“i” that is now customary. Instead a
crossed-circle device is present on the left knee. In addition, the sword-and-book symbol of the
Grey Knights had not yet been defined, and in the earliest Malleus army list the Chapter is
identified by an eagle clutching a rod and an axe in its talons. Four arms were produced for this
small range touting a Combi Weapon, a Force Rod, a Psycannon and a Power Glove (that featured
Digital Weapons on its knuckles).

Release date: 1989-1990

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