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40k RUMORS: Leman Russ Returning With New Space Wolves Models

Wild new rumors hint at update Space Wolves models for Warhammer 40k 10th Edition, a Logan Grimnar rework, and possibly even the return of Primarch Leman Russ!

Wild new rumors hint at updated Space Wolves models for Warhammer 40k 10th Edition, a Logan Grimnar rework, and possibly even the return of Primarch Leman Russ!

RUMORS- Space Wolves Due for Major Warhammer 40k Refresh: New Models & Leman Russ Return?

Space Wolves feature

The wolves of Fenris have been howling in the background for some time now, but it seems like they’re finally about to take center stage in Warhammer 40k’s latest edition. If the rumors hold any weight—and they’ve been pretty spot-on so far—we could be seeing the Space Wolves get the refresh they’ve needed since Logan Grimnar first decided a Santa sleigh was the pinnacle of battlefield transport.

If you’ve been keeping track, the Dark Angels and Blood Angels have already strutted onto the battlefield with updated looks. That leaves the Space Wolves—known for their wild, untamed style—potentially waiting for their turn in the spotlight. With each of the other iconic Space Marine chapters getting attention, it’s only logical that these grizzled warriors of the Imperium would be next on the to-do list. Just remember, though, these are rumors! So, take them with as much salt as you need, so don’t get too excited or upset because they could all be wrong!

Why Space Wolves Might Be the Next Chapter for a Refresh

space wolvesIn the waning days of 9th Edition, the talk was all about what would come next. Fans speculated that 10th Edition would bring a triple-feature overhaul for the most legendary Space Marine chapters. So far, the predictions have hit the mark for two-thirds of the lineup. The Dark Angels got the Lion back, while the Blood Angels swooped in with a refined range of bloodthirsty models. But there’s been an icy silence around the Space Wolves, leading many to believe they’re next for the sprue treatment.

As the last of the trifecta, the Space Wolves are primed for their time to shine. They’ve always been a fan favorite, blending Nordic mythology with brutal efficiency. For many, a Space Wolves army isn’t complete without a pack of snarling Wulfen or some towering Thunderwolf Cavalry. But even diehard Wolf Lords will admit: the current model range is looking a bit dated, especially compared to the recent updates for their Angelic brothers. The wolves have been baying for something new, and it looks like they might just get it.

Speculation also stems from the success of previous refreshes, where fans have seen how impactful updated models can be, both aesthetically and on the tabletop. The hope is that the Space Wolves’ eventual update will strike a balance between staying true to their rugged, primal roots while giving them the kind of visual upgrade we’ve seen in recent releases. The latest rumors from Valrak point to the return of some old favorites and possibly a few new toys for Fenrisian commanders to unleash upon their foes.

What’s got people most excited is the potential for this refresh to include not just the rank-and-file but some of the Space Wolves’ iconic characters. Logan Grimnar, the Great Wolf himself, could be getting a new model that does more justice to his legendary status (but this isn’t confirmed by any means). And, of course, fans have been crossing their fingers for the return of a new Primarch Leman Russ, the Wolf King, model ever since Lion El’Jonson made his dramatic comeback. If Russ does return, it could signal a major narrative event, much like the Lion’s reemergence heralded the shift to 10th Edition.

A Reliable Source Predicts a Space Wolves Range Update

space wolves 3rd edition coverWarhammer 40k rumor mills are always churning, but every now and then, someone gets it right enough times that you can’t help but listen. One particular source—who has hit the mark with past predictions—claims that the Space Wolves are finally on the verge of getting a shiny new range update. Considering this insider’s impressive track record, it’s hard not to take the claim seriously. The same source previously called the return of Lion El’Jonson and the Dark Angels refresh, so when they start growling about a Space Wolves update, it’s worth paying attention.

This isn’t the first time whispers of Space Wolves getting new models have circulated. The chatter has been growing louder, especially since other key chapters have already had their moment in the sun. With the recent Blood Angels updates, it feels like the Sons of Fenris have been standing in the cold, waiting for their turn at the forge. So, when someone with a history of spot-on predictions suggests that Space Wolves are next, people start to perk up—like a wolf sniffing out a fresh kill.

When to Expect the Space Wolves Refresh: Late 10th to Early 11th Edition

Leman RussNow, let’s talk timing. The rumor mill suggests that the Space Wolves update could land toward the tail end of 10th Edition, setting up a grand entrance for none other than a new Primarch Leman Russ model (but again, not confirmed by any means). Sound familiar? It should—Lion El’Jonson’s triumphant return at the end of 9th Edition set the stage for 10th, and now the Wolf King might do the same for the transition into 11th Edition. The thought of Russ returning after millennia to lead his sons once again is the kind of narrative bombshell that would get any Warhammer fan’s pulse racing.

Speculation doesn’t stop there. Some believe that the 11th Edition starter box could feature an Orks vs. Space Wolves showdown. Imagine it: brutal greenskins clashing with savage warriors from Fenris in a release that could rival the iconic box sets of the past. Given that Orks always bring a crowd and Space Wolves have a loyal following hungry for new models, this could be a hit. Such a box could also serve as the perfect narrative launching pad for Leman Russ’s reintroduction. It could also very well be a box that is painted as Ultramarines, but in lore terms, it’s obvious they would be up against the Space Wolves.

The whispers also suggest that the Space Wolves could roll out in phases, with character updates and iconic units like Thunderwolf Cavalry getting their day in the sun first, followed by more units and new sculpts in the 11th Edition. If this plays out as rumored, fans of the Fang might soon find themselves upgrading their collection piece by piece while eagerly anticipating every new release, just like they are rumored to be doing with the Eldar.

It’s not just the lore that’s at stake here—Warhammer 40k has always been as much about the models as the story they tell. If the rumors are accurate, we’re not just looking at a few tweaks here and there; we’re talking about a meaningful addition to the saga of the Space Wolves, one that could change the landscape of the Imperium’s future—and your display shelf. So, is it time to start dusting off your old Space Wolves? If the rumors are true, the answer might be “yes, and get ready for something big.”

Phased Space Wolves Model Updates: What Could Be Released First?

Logan GrimnarSo, the Space Wolves are rumored to be getting some serious love in the form of a phased range refresh. Rather than a one-and-done release, we’re likely to see these models trickle out like a slow hunt on Fenris, keeping players hooked for months (or longer). If you’re a fan of the Space Wolves’ iconic leaders and ferocious units, this could be a major win.

First up, let’s talk about key characters. Rumor has it that Logan Grimnar, the Great Wolf himself, might be leading the charge. His current model, while still imposing, is starting to feel more “classic” than cutting-edge. A new sculpt could see him ditching his sleigh (Santa Grimnar jokes, anyone?) and returning to a more grounded pose that truly captures his status as a hardened, unyielding warrior. An updated Grimnar could give Space Wolves players a centerpiece worthy of the Great Wolf’s legendary reputation.

wolf guardBut that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Space Wolves Terminators (Wolf Guard) are also said to be in line for a makeover. Given the recent focus on Terminator units across the Space Marine range, it makes sense for the sons of Fenris to get their own updated armor. Expect bulkier frames, more detailed fur pelts, and maybe even some extra runes and wolf motifs thrown in for good measure. With Terminators being central to the Space Wolves’ lore and battlefield strategies, a new kit could become a must-have for players.

Thunderwolf Cavalry Space WolvesAs for the supporting cast, we might see a refreshed Space Wolves upgrade sprue to bring the standard Space Marine kits more in line with their uniquely barbaric aesthetic. If the rumors are true, we could even get some long-awaited updates to iconic units like Wulfen or Thunderwolf Cavalry. Picture those savage, werewolf-like warriors in models that finally match their fearsome reputation. Meanwhile, Thunderwolf Cavalry, with their lumbering, bestial mounts, could benefit from sleeker, more dynamic poses and updated sculpts that highlight the raw power of these units.

The most exciting part? This phased rollout means that the Space Wolves army could see constant buzz and new releases well into the next edition. It’s like a rolling feast, and for Space Wolves players, there’s always another course to look forward to.

How a Space Wolves Refresh Could Shake Up the Meta

Leman Russ Primarch Horus Heresy model miniature forge world warhammer 40k

Forge World Horus Heresy Primarch Model

It’s not just the models themselves that could change the game—their impact on gameplay could be a real game-changer. New models typically bring updated rules, and if the Space Wolves range refresh aligns with new codex content, we could see a shift in how they’re played.

Characters like Grimnar might also come with revised abilities that reflect the new models’ imposing stature, making them even more influential on the tabletop.

Then there’s the question of the more specialized units like Wulfen and Thunderwolf Cavalry. If these get rules boosts alongside their updated sculpts, they could leap back into competitive play, dominating close combat with feral ferocity. An updated Wulfen kit, for instance, could introduce more tactical flexibility, allowing these aggressive units to shine as both line-breakers and objective holders.

Narratively, a Space Wolves refresh could see them taking a more prominent role in the broader 40k storyline. With a new Primarch Leman Russ model, potentially on the horizon, their presence could be central to the Imperium’s ongoing conflicts, giving players new reasons to rally under the banner of the Great Wolf.

Ultimately, this refresh could position the Space Wolves as one of the standout armies of the next edition, both in terms of aesthetics and gameplay. Whether you’re charging across the board on thunderous mounts or holding the line with stoic Terminators, it’s clear that the Space Wolves are gearing up to be a force worth howling about in the near future.

Final Thoughts on the Space Wolves Release Rumors

Space WolvesAs the rumor storm swirls, it’s starting to feel like the winds of Fenris are carrying some truth—these updates might just be on the horizon for the Space Wolves. Whether it’s the potential return of the Primarch Leman Russ, a Logan Grimnar glow-up, or some sleek new Terminator kits ready to charge into battle, the next few releases could have Space Wolves fans howling with excitement.

Of course, we’re all still waiting for official confirmation, but if even half of these rumors pan out, the sons of Russ are in for a much-needed resurgence. The Fang may be about to wake up, and it’s bringing the bite.

All the Latest Warhammer Rules & Model Rumors

What do you think about the rumored refresh of Space Wolves models and even a primarch Leman Russ for Warhammer 40k?

About the Author: Travis Pasch

Travis Pasch

travis pasch writer headshot profile bioJob Title: Head Writer & Editor

Socials: @paschbass 

About Travis Pasch: Travis has been a Warhammer 40k hobbyist since the 1990s, playing the game since Third Edition. Through extensive traveling, he’s seen a lot of the miniatures hobby from across the world, giving him a unique perspective on the latest gaming topics and trends.

Travis’s brother even owns a commission painting studio, where he’s picked up a lot of good advice and techniques for painting Warhammer and tabletop miniatures over the years, as well. Travis joined the Spikey Bits team in 2019 and has been the lead writer since 2020.

Currently, he’s working on converting all his 40k Adeptus Mechanicus models and becoming a true tech enjoyer, complete with both sad and happy robot noises!