Warhammer 40k Archives

The Evolution of Power Armour

Power armour, a staple of warfare in the grim darkness of the 41st millennium, has undergone significant transformations over the centuries. Initially developed for the Space Marines, these suits have been adapted and modified by various factions to suit their needs.

Imperial Power Armour

The Imperium of Man has developed several variants of power armour, each with its unique characteristics.

• Space Marine Power Armour: The most iconic and advanced power armour, worn by the genetically engineered Space Marines. Its ceramite plates provide unparalleled protection, while its electro-motivated fibre bundles enhance the wearer’s strength.
• Sisters of Battle Power Armour: Designed for the human shape and size, this armour is worn by the Sisters of Battle. Although less robust than Space Marine power armour, it still offers significant protection and enhancement.
• Adeptus Custodes Power Armour: Crafted from Auramite, this golden armour is worn by the elite Adeptus Custodes. Its unique properties make it resistant to damage and enhance the wearer’s abilities.
• Vratine Power Armour: Used by the Sisters of Silence, this armour combines elements of Space Marine and Selenite void-mail designs.

Other Imperial Designs

The Imperium has developed various other power armour designs, including:

• Light Power Armour: A more agile and mobile variant, sacrificing some protection for increased flexibility.
• Heavy Power Armour: A bulkier design, prioritizing protection over mobility.
• Lidhl Light Power Armour: A lower-end variant, often used by officers of the Scintillan Guard.
• Stormsuit pattern: Used by the Arkan Confederates’ Steamblood Zouaves, these powered exoskeletons offer enhanced strength and protection.
• Zayth Engine Armour: A marvel of Dark Age technology, providing protection and strength enhancement, but limited in availability.

Non-Imperial Power Armour

Other factions have developed their own power armour designs, including:

• Exo-Armour: Produced by the Squats of the Leagues of Votann, this extremely durable armour is comparable to Terminator Armour.
• Armour of the Order: A rudimentary pattern used by the Knights of the Order on Caliban before the arrival of the Emperor.
• The Auretian Technocracy’s power armour: A model used by the Brotherhood order of soldiers, similar to Astartes power armour but without the need for a black carapace.
• Dulanian power armour: Utilized by the Faash’s Scarabine mechanised troopers, this heavy armour incorporates internal shield generators and chem-stimm dispensers.