The Combat Patrol: Blood Angels is an elite force of Space Marines dedicated to the Emperor's cause, embodying noble warriors and fierce bloodthirsty hunters. The Blood Angels are known for their tragic, yet heroic legacy, having been cursed with a flaw that makes them prone to the Red Thirst, a battle-frenzied rage that drives them to fight with unparalleled ferocity. The Combat Patrol for this chapter offers a dynamic and versatile force, perfect for players who want to balance elite combat tactics, fast assaults, and devastating shooting capabilities.
Background and Lore
The Blood Angels are one of the most iconic Space Marine chapters in Warhammer 40k, originally led by the noble and tragic Sanguinius, whose death at the hands of Horus during the Horus Heresy has left a legacy of both heroism and a tragic flaw. The Red Thirst, a curse that causes them to crave the bloodshed of battle, is tempered only by their sense of duty and their strong bond with the Emperor. Their Combat Patrol represents the most elite elements of their force, focusing on elite shock troops, devastating assaults, and precise, efficient combat.
The Blood Angels are known for their noble hearts, rapid attacks, and exceptional aerial mobility, which is reflected in their Combat Patrol. These warriors are quick to engage in battle, leaping into the fray with their jump packs and devastating melee weapons. They also boast superb shooting skills, making them an effective force both at long range and in close combat.
Combat Patrol: Blood Angels Units
Blood Angels Intercessor Squad:
- The Intercessors are the backbone of any Blood Angels army, equipped with bolt rifles and highly trained for both ranged and close-quarters combat. They are extremely versatile, capable of holding key objectives and dealing with threats at both long range and close combat.
- Blood Angels Intercessors benefit from chapter-specific abilities, such as Shock Assault, which allows them to make extra attacks after charging, making them particularly dangerous in close combat.
Blood Angels Assault Squad:
- Assault Squads are a hallmark of the Blood Angels, renowned for their ability to charge into battle with incredible speed. Equipped with jump packs, these Space Marines are designed to close the distance quickly and engage the enemy in melee combat where they excel.
- Armed with chainswords, power swords, or pistols, the Assault Squad can dish out significant damage, particularly when led by a Sergeant with a power weapon or special weapon. The Blood Angels’ Assault Squads are one of the most aggressive elements of the army, jumping into enemy lines to cause havoc.
Blood Angels Captain (Jump Pack or Standard):
- The Captain is an essential commander for any Blood Angels force. As a leader, the Captain provides leadership and boosts to attacks, allowing nearby squads to perform at their best in combat. The Jump Pack Captain brings even more mobility to the force, enabling them to engage in any part of the battlefield, leading the Assault Squads and Intercessors to victory.
- The Captain can wield a power sword, plasma pistol, or other special weapons, making them an excellent combatant. Their ability to reroll hits or wounds also adds significant tactical flexibility.
Blood Angels Death Company:
- The Death Company are the most frenzied and bloodthirsty of the Blood Angels. These elite troops are affected by the Black Rage, making them uncontrollable and fierce in battle, as they charge into enemy lines without hesitation.
- Equipped with chainswords and pistols, and sometimes power weapons, the Death Company are built for close combat, with an added benefit of their Black Rage, which allows them to be even more devastating when charging into the fight.
- Their jump packs also allow them to quickly get into combat, making them ideal for rapid strikes and shock tactics.
Blood Angels Baal Predator (Optional):
- The Baal Predator is a fast-moving tank with a focus on fire support, and it is an excellent addition to a Blood Angels Combat Patrol. Armed with heavy flamers, assault cannons, or heavy bolters, this tank is designed to provide firepower while complementing the close combat prowess of the rest of the army.
- The Baal Predator allows the Blood Angels to deal with armored threats and light infantry, while still maintaining their rapid strike tactics. It adds fire support and flexibility to the army’s arsenal.
Blood Angels Sanguinary Priest (Optional):
- The Sanguinary Priest plays a pivotal role in the Blood Angels Combat Patrol by providing support to the units around him. With the ability to heal injured units and boost morale, the Sanguinary Priest is an essential part of any Blood Angels force, ensuring that they stay fighting at full strength.
- They also provide the Litany of Battle, which can give nearby units an edge in combat or provide extra attacks. When paired with Death Company or Assault Squads, the Sanguinary Priest becomes a formidable force.
Blood Angels Invictor Tactical War Suit (Optional):
- The Invictor Tactical War Suit is a highly mobile and deadly unit, making it perfect for Blood Angels that need to get up close and personal with the enemy. Armed with heavy weapons like assault cannons and flamers, it can engage at range, while still being an effective close combat unit with its fist weapons.
- The Invictor Tactical War Suit offers additional support and mobility on the battlefield, especially if you’re facing off against heavily armored units or need a unit to clear out enemy positions.
Tactics and Playstyle
The Blood Angels Combat Patrol thrives on speed, mobility, and aggression. Their playstyle is focused on fast attacks, where they quickly close the gap between them and the enemy and deal with them up close. Their key strengths are high mobility, elite close combat, and devastating shooting.
Fast and Furious: Jump packs, Baal Predators, and Death Company make the Blood Angels a fast-moving army. The Assault Squads and Death Company will charge into combat as quickly as possible, overwhelming enemies with the ferocity of their attacks.
Assault First, Ask Questions Later: The Blood Angels excel in close combat, and Assault Squads and Death Company are the hammer of their force. The key is to engage the enemy up close, where the Blood Angels can maximize their melee capabilities. This makes high-speed mobility and aggressive tactics critical for success.
Tactical Flexibility: The Blood Angels can also adapt to various situations. Intercessors provide fire support at range, while Baal Predators or Invictor War Suits can help with heavier threats. The Captain and Sanguinary Priest provide additional leadership, moral support, and the opportunity for more attacks.
Conclusion
The Blood Angels Combat Patrol is perfect for players who enjoy fast, elite armies that focus on aggressive assaults and elite combat tactics. These noble warriors excel at getting into the fray quickly and dealing devastating blows to their enemies with their melee prowess and aerial mobility. The Blood Angels are a faction of both heroism and tragedy, and their Combat Patrol embodies their ability to strike with speed, precision, and ferocity. With elite units, devastating close combat, and fast-moving strikes, the Blood Angels Combat Patrol is an excellent choice for players looking to deliver swift justice in the name of the Emperor.