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How to Play 40k Astra Militarum Army Guide, Codex Rules and Review

how-to-play-codex-rules-imperial-guard-astra-militarium-warhammer-40kUnleash the might of the Imperium with our guide to the new Astra Militarum (Imperial Guard) codex in 10th Edition Warhammer 40k: how to play, index changes, PDF, rules, tips, strategies, and review!

Updated January 28th, 2025, by Rob Baer. This post has been updated with the latest codex rules and profiles.

The Astra Militarum isn’t about flashy superhumans or ancient alien tech—it’s about disciplined ranks, relentless firepower, following the rules, and sheer overwhelming numbers. If you like tanks rolling across the battlefield, infantry squads holding the line, and the occasional last stand against impossible odds, you’re in the right place.

Our guide breaks down everything you need to know to field the Astra Militarum in Warhammer 40k 10th Edition and the key changes from the index. From understanding the new codex rules to picking the best strategies and units for the Imperial Guard, we’ll give you the resources for building and commanding the Emperor’s finest. Whether you’re looking for tips on list building, a PDF reference for key rules, or just a review of how they stack up in the current meta, it’s all here.

Ready to bring the hammer of the Emperor down on your foes? Let’s get into it!

Meet the Astra Militarum: Humanity’s Finest in Warhammer 40k

Astra MilitarumSo, you think the idea of massive tanks rolling across a war-torn battlefield and waves of stubborn infantry digging in against impossible odds sounds like a blast? Then you’re about to find your new favorite army in Warhammer 40k—the Astra Militarum (even if you never played them with the index).

Known to their friends (and enemies) as the Imperial Guard, these folks are the Imperium’s dependable backbone and don’t always have to follow the codex. Forget superhuman warriors and mysterious sorcerers—this is about everyday soldiers armed with lasguns, supported by an obscene amount of firepower, and driven by sheer willpower.

What Exactly Is the Astra Militarum?

Leman Russ Tank Guard Astra Militarum 40k BIG FAQ 2: Five Things That Missed The MarkIn the grim darkness of the Warhammer 40k universe, the Astra Militarum stands as humanity’s frontline defense. They’re the gritty soldiers who keep the Imperium of Man from being overrun by the galaxy’s many horrors.

Picture endless infantry squads, hulking tanks, and earth-shattering artillery laying waste to anything foolish enough to stand in their path. Unlike the elite, scalpel-like precision of the Space Marines, the Guard’s strategy is more akin to hitting a nail with a sledgehammer—brutal, effective, and impossible to ignore.

The real magic of the Astra Militarum is their sheer numbers, rules, and adaptability. Leman Russ tanks are the backbone of their armored might, shelling enemies into oblivion while shrugging off damage. Infantry squads may look like cannon fodder, but with enough bodies on the field, they’re perfect for holding critical objectives.

And let’s not forget the big guns—when you roll out a Baneblade or a Shadowsword, the enemy’s day is about to get a whole lot worse. Their motto? “Strength in numbers.” With the Astra Militarum (Imperial Guard) 10th Edition Codex in hand, this army’s playstyle gets even better form the index, offering fresh tactics and a smorgasbord of ways to ruin your opponent’s plans.

Why Command the Astra Militarum in 10th Edition?

astra militarum battleforceSo why should you lead the Astra Militarum to victory in 10th Edition? Simple—the Astra Militarum (Imperial Guard) Codex 10th Edition is packed with new tricks and firepower to keep your opponents sweating. The revamped Voice of Command mechanic lets your officers bark out orders that can make your infantry and tanks hit harder, move faster, and hold the line longer than ever before. Think of it as tactical flexibility on a silver platter, ready to counter any threat.

Still love the classic Combined Regiment Detachment? It’s back and as punishing as ever, perfect for raining endless volleys down on your foes. But if you want to spice things up, the new codex offers specialized detachments.

Dream of reducing the battlefield to rubble with artillery? The Siege Regiment has your back. Want to roll out with a steel wall of tanks? The Hammer of the Emperor Detachment turns your armored units into juggernauts.

The updated datasheets and weapon profiles in the Astra Militarum (Imperial Guard) 10th Edition Codex PDF bring even more options from the index. Infantry units can now bulk up to 20 models, giving you more staying power and firepower. Tanks like the Rogal Dorn and Baneblade now have improved resilience, turning them into moving fortresses that protect nearby units. And with the Shadowsword’s utterly devastating volcano cannon, you’ll be dishing out damage like never before.

Detachment Rules in the Astra Militarum Codex 10th Edition

The Astra Militarum (Imperial Guard) Codex 10th Edition arms commanders with an arsenal of tactical options and rules (even better than the index) to crush their enemies with overwhelming firepower, iron discipline, and the occasional well-placed explosion.

Each detachment amplifies a different playstyle, whether you prefer rolling in with tanks, hammering foes with artillery, or swarming objectives with infantry. Let’s break down what makes each one shine and how to get the most out of them.

Combined Regiment Detachment

Astra Militarum detachments 9What It Does:
A well-balanced mix of infantry and vehicles, this detachment thrives on synergy. The Born Soldiers rule hands out Lethal Hits—infantry get it against regular targets, while tanks use it to wreck Monsters and Vehicles.

Astra Militarum detachments 8How to Play It Smart:

  • Death Mask of Ollanius keeps your troops functional even when Battle-shocked, letting them hold objectives instead of fleeing like cowards.
  • Grand Strategist grants an extra Order in the Command phase, making sure your most crucial units get the buffs they need.
  • Fields of Fire adds +1 AP when both infantry and vehicles gang up on the same target—perfect for melting enemy armor.
  • Reinforcements lets you bring back full-strength infantry squads, keeping your boots on the ground longer than your opponent would like.

Siege Regiment

Astra Militarum detachments 7What It Does:
Love artillery? This is your detachment. Artillery Support lets you pick between suppressing movement, stripping Cover, or making your own units Stealthy.

Astra Militarum detachments 6How to Play It Smart:

  • Manticores and Basilisks become nightmares for your opponent, especially when paired with Creeping Barrage to slow enemy advances.
  • Flash Grenades on Infantry Officers shut down Overwatch, so your squads can move in without getting torched.
  • Minefield turns key locations into no-go zones, dealing mortal wounds to enemies who try to push forward.
  • Furious Fusillade cranks up the number of ranged attacks, making your infantry surprisingly lethal in close-range firefights.

Mechanized Assault

Astra Militarum detachments 5What It Does:
Turn your Transports into tactical weapons with Armoured Fist, giving units +1 to Wound after disembarking.

Astra Militarum detachments 4How to Play It Smart:

  • Rapid Dispersal lets your troops reposition after leaving a Transport, setting up nasty surprises.
  • Hasty Extraction lets vulnerable infantry retreat into a Transport at the end of the enemy turn, keeping them alive for another round.
  • Sacred Unguents grants reroll Hits to nearby tanks, ensuring every shot counts.
  • Vanguard Honours lets infantry disembark after an Advance, creating absurd mobility plays.

Hammer of the Emperor

Astra Militarum detachments 3What It Does:
Tanks, tanks, and more tanks. Iron Tread makes them Advance faster and move through enemies like a wrecking ball.

Astra Militarum detachments 2How to Play It Smart:

  • Final Hour keeps wounded tanks fighting at full power, ignoring those pesky Ballistic Skill penalties.
  • Blazing Advance lets them shoot while repositioning, keeping the pressure on while staying mobile.
  • Furious Cannonade gives +1 AP to tanks within 12”, perfect for melting enemy armor.
  • Veteran Crew lets you reroll Hit rolls of 1, ensuring your shots don’t go to waste.

Recon Element

What It Does:
Great for board control, this detachment helps infantry and walkers stay alive with Masters of Camouflage, granting Cover and boosting saves.

Recon ElementHow to Play It Smart:

  • Guerrilla Honours allows you to redeploy up to three units after setup, keeping your opponent on their toes.
  • Scare Gas Grenades force Battle-shock tests, throwing a wrench into enemy plans.
  • Tripwires slow enemy movement, making it harder for them to reach key areas of the board.

Bridgehead Strike

What It Does:
Focused on Tempestus Scions, this detachment rewards high mobility and elite infantry.

How to Play It Smart:

  • Vox-Relay lets Officers issue Orders across the board, keeping your Scions coordinated no matter where they land.
  • Clear and Secure grants rerolls near objectives, ensuring your deep-striking troops make their shots count.
  • Tempestus units dominate objective control, combining elite firepower with special weapons like plasma and melta guns.

Each of these detachments brings something unique to the table. Whether you’re crushing enemies with artillery, overwhelming them with sheer numbers, or rolling a steel tide across the battlefield, the Astra Militarum Codex 10th Edition has the perfect tools for Imperial supremacy that pump up the index rules to 11. Pick your playstyle, issue your orders, and remind the galaxy why the Imperial Guard is the Emperor’s hammer.

Key Units in the Astra Militarum 10th Edition Codex & PDF

The Astra Militarum (Imperial Guard) Codex 10th Edition is stacked with units that can flood the battlefield with bodies, roll over foes with unstoppable armor, or level entire sections of the board with artillery, and even more options than the index. Whether you prefer waves of disciplined infantry, thundering tanks, or explosions big enough to make an Ork jealous, there’s something here for you. Let’s break down the standout units that make the Imperial Guard a force to be reckoned with.

Infantry Units

Krieg Combat EngineersKrieg Engineers

These guys are the sneaky saboteurs of the Astra Militarum (Imperial Guard) codex and a fun addition not in the index. Armed with grenades, mines, and a bad attitude, they specialize in mortal wounds, making them a nightmare for enemy vehicles and high-value targets. Their Remote Mine ability dishes out D3+3 mortal wounds to nearby enemy vehicles, which can leave an opponent scrambling to plug holes in their battle line.

That said, they’re not the toughest and can get a bit pricey for what they bring. Think of them as a disruptor unit—deploy them in the right spot, mess with your opponent’s plans, and force them to waste time dealing with these sneaky saboteurs instead of your more valuable units.

Death Korps of Krieg

Death Korps of Krieg RulesHard-hitting, unbreakable, and covered in mud, the Death Korps of Krieg are a fan-favorite for a reason. Their Stubborn Tenacity lets them receive Orders even while Battle-shocked, which means they’ll hold objectives and keep firing no matter what gets thrown at them.

They come equipped with solid melee weapons and reliable ranged options, making them extremely versatile. They’re not the fastest, but if you need an infantry unit that can grind enemies into paste, these trench fighters won’t let you down. Stick them near artillery or a commanding officer for maximum efficiency.

Vehicles and Heavy Armor in the Astra Militarum 10th Edition Codex & PDF

Leman Russ Battle Tanks

Leman russ Commander RulesThe backbone of Astra Militarum armored power, the Leman Russ is a tank that does exactly what it says on the tin—takes a beating and keeps on blasting. With tough armor, a Battle Cannon that shreds infantry and vehicles alike, and new Orders that make it even more flexible, it’s a must-have in any list.

Want to maximize its power? Pair it with Tank Commanders for better Ballistic Skill and strategic Orders. Whether you need to hold objectives, soften up enemy forces, or outright delete a target, the Leman Russ is never a bad choice.

Tank Commanders

Rogal Dorn Battle Tank Commander RulesThink of these as the brains behind the brawn. Tank Commanders don’t just blast enemies to dust—they coordinate the attack. They come with extra durability and can issue Orders, making them indispensable in a vehicle-heavy army.

Their Called Shots ability on the Rogal Dorn Tank Commander is particularly nasty, allowing re-rolls on hits, wounds, and damage—perfect for precision devastation when you need something gone yesterday.

Cavalry Units in the Astra Militarum 10th Edition Codex & PDF

Death Riders RulesDeath Riders & Attilan Rough Riders

Cavalry in the 41st Millennium? Absolutely. Death Riders and Attilan Rough Riders bring high-speed melee mayhem to an army that usually fights at range.

  • Death Riders are mid-board disruptors, using reactive movement to strike where it hurts.
  • Attilan Rough Riders specialize in high-impact charges, impaling foes with their devastating lances.

Pair them with Lord Marshall Dreir to add extra utility and ensure they’re landing devastating wounds on the charge.

Artillery Units

Artillery Team RulesThe Imperial Guard wouldn’t be the Imperial Guard without big guns firing from miles away. Artillery units bring indirect firepower that keeps enemies ducking for cover even when they’re nowhere near the front lines.

Basilisks & Manticores

  • Basilisks are all about consistent suppression, raining high-strength shells onto targets that thought they were safe.
  • Manticores go for raw damage, launching massive rockets that delete high-value units in a single volley.

Field Ordnance Batteries

These guys don’t just sit back and lob shells—they also hold objectives and lay down support fire for your infantry. Perfect for anyone who wants to lock down a section of the battlefield and make it a nightmare to approach.

10th Edition Astra Militarum Codex PDF Download

If you want to download the Astra Militarum 10th edition codex PDF rules for yourself, here are a couple of helpful links and where you can find them: 

New Astra Militarum Rules in the 10th Edition Codex

The Astra Militarum 10th Edition Codex PDF dials up the firepower and streamlines the rules to keep the Imperial Guard as versatile and relentless as ever. Whether you love rolling in with tanks, marching infantry in overwhelming waves, or just raining artillery on anything that moves, this codex has something for you. With upgraded Orders, improved datasheets, and smarter stratagems, the Emperor’s hammer hits even harder this time around.

The Voice of Command: How Orders Work in 10th Edition

Orders are the backbone of Astra Militarum gameplay, and in 10th Edition, they’re easier to use and even more effective. Officers bark their commands during the Command Phase or right after hopping out of a transport, with a 6-inch range (usually) to issue Orders to eligible Infantry or Vehicle squadrons.

Each Order grants a key buff—from boosting movement to improving accuracy or increasing durability. These effects last for the entire phase, making them a crucial tool for controlling the flow of battle.

Best Practices for Issuing Orders:

  • “Take Aim!” goes to your highest-damage units—whether it’s infantry with special weapons or tank squadrons—to make sure they hit their mark.
  • “Move! Move! Move!” is perfect for grabbing objectives or flanking enemy positions—use it wisely.
  • Keep Officers mobile—position Castellans and Command Squads where they can affect multiple units for maximum efficiency.
  • Don’t waste Orders on Battle-shocked units—they lose the benefits immediately.

Datasheets and Weapon Rules: Key Changes to Infantry and Vehicles

Lord Solar Leontus rulesThe Astra Militarum 10th Edition Codex PDF brings major improvements to infantry and vehicles, ensuring your units stay relevant on the battlefield.

Infantry Changes:

  • Cadian Shock Troops and Death Korps of Krieg can now form larger squads (up to 20 models), making them more durable and letting them carry more special weapons in each unit.
  • Combined Regiment units gain more tactical flexibility, allowing you to customize your line infantry to match your strategy.

Vehicle Changes:

  • Leman Russ and Rogal Dorn tanks got more durability and better synergy with Commanders.
  • The Baneblade is tougher than ever, shrugging off damage until heavily wounded, and its Rolling Fortress ability grants Cover to nearby units.

If you’re running an infantry-heavy army, these changes keep your squads on the table longer. If tanks are your thing, you’ll find new tools to make them even harder to kill and deadlier in combat.

Weapon Profiles: What’s New and How to Use Them

Lord Marshall Drier RulesThe new weapon profiles fit into 10th Edition’s streamlined rules, giving Astra Militarum units clear battlefield roles.

  • Leman Russ Battle Cannons now pump out multiple high-strength shots, making them devastating against almost anything.
  • Baneblade Cannons remain blast-heavy nightmares, turning enemy squads into craters.
  • Plasma guns and melta guns received better AP, making them even scarier against elite infantry and vehicles.

Loadout Tips:

  • Grenade launchers are great for flexibility, working well with large infantry squads.
  • Lascannons in heavy weapon teams are essential for taking down big threats.

The updated weapons reward careful list-building—mix and match loadouts to maximize your army’s strengths.

Stratagems: How to Get the Most Out of Astra militarum’s Tactics

Astra Militarum detachments 8Stratagems are more focused and impactful, offering key buffs that enhance your army’s strengths. Whether you’re rallying reinforcements, boosting firepower, or making tanks even harder to kill, there’s a stratagem for every situation.

Key Stratagems in the Combined Regiment Detachment:

  • Fields of Fire (1CP): If Infantry and Vehicles attack the same target, they gain +1 AP—great for shredding enemy armor.
  • Reinforcements (2CP): Resurrect a destroyed Infantry Regiment unit at full strength in Strategic Reserves—perfect for keeping board control.
  • Stalwart Protector (1CP): Infantry hiding behind a tank get Cover, boosting their survivability.

High-Impact Stratagems in Other Detachments:

  • Blazing Advance (1CP) (Hammer of the Emperor) – Tanks can shoot even after Advancing. Keep moving, keep blasting.
  • Over the Top (2CP) (Siege Regiment) – Infantry Officers can issue “Move! Move! Move!” to any Regiment unit, anywhere.
  • Clear and Secure (1CP) (Mechanized Assault) – Infantry that disembark from transports get rerolls to hit and wound against enemies near objectives.

These stratagems make Astra Militarum armies incredibly versatile, letting you adapt on the fly and punish opponents who aren’t prepared.

Astra Militarum Tactics and Strategies

imperial guard astra militarum unbeatableIf you’re leading the Astra Militarum in 10th Edition, you already know that the key to victory is throwing down overwhelming firepower and making the battlefield your playground. Infantry squads lock down objectives, tanks rule the firing lanes, and artillery turns anything that moves into a smoking crater.

This army doesn’t rely on fancy tricks—it wins through sheer numbers and smart positioning. Let’s break down how to make your opponents regret facing the Emperor’s finest.

Deployment and Movement Strategies

Maximizing Board Control with Infantry Hordes

The average Guardsman might not seem like much, but in large numbers, they choke the battlefield and make life miserable for opponents. If you’re running Cadian Shock Troops or Death Korps of Krieg, proper placement can win you the game before the first shot is fired.

  • Frontline Screens – Cheap squads exist to absorb enemy charges and soak up firepower. Throw them forward, let them get shot, and watch your opponent waste their best attacks on disposable bodies.
  • Objective Camping – Park a 20-man squad on an objective with a Vox-Caster, then slap “Take Cover!” on them. Now your opponent has to chew through a wall of bodies with boosted saves.
  • Zone Denial – Stretch your infantry wide and watch your opponent panic as they run out of space for deep strikes or sneaky flanking plays. A wall of Guardsmen stops fast-moving threats cold.

Tank Placement for Optimal Line of Sight

Tanks are the backbone of your army, but bad placement can turn them into expensive wreckage fast. Positioning is everything.

  • Cover and Angles – Use terrain to break enemy line of sight, keeping your Leman Russ and Rogal Dorn safe from anti-tank weapons while maintaining clean shots at priority targets.
  • Overlapping Fields of Fire – Deploy your tanks to focus fire on enemy armor or big threats. Battle Cannons + Lascannons in sync = deleted enemy vehicles before they become a problem.
  • Keep Mobile Units Ready – A Leman Russ with “Blazing Advance” can reposition and still fire, making it the perfect flex unit for unexpected threats.

Offensive and Defensive Strategies

imperial guard hor wal army lists warhammerLeveraging Artillery for Long-Range Dominance

No one does long-range devastation better than the Astra Militarum. Basilisks, Manticores, and Field Ordnance Batteries let you bombard enemies from the safety of your deployment zone, forcing them to play reactively from turn one.

  • Target Prioritization – Use artillery to delete backline threats like support characters or light infantry squads. No one likes losing their buff units before they’ve done anything.
  • Layering Damage – When infantry and tanks focus fire on the same target, artillery finishes the job. Remove threats piece by piece, and by the time they reach your lines, they’re too weak to fight back.

Using Orders to Counter Specific Threats

Orders turn your army from “decent” to “unstoppable.” Issued at the right time, they flip the battlefield in your favor.

  • “Take Aim!” – Use this on tanks or heavy weapon teams when hitting a high-value target is non-negotiable. Nothing’s worse than missing the perfect shot.
  • “Move! Move! Move!” – Need an objective at the last second? Need to cut off enemy movement? This is your best tool for repositioning infantry exactly where they need to be.
  • “Fix Bayonets!” – Sometimes, close combat is unavoidable. This bumps up melee effectiveness, keeping your infantry in the fight just long enough for reinforcements to finish the job.

Building an Astra Militarum Army in 10th Edition With the New Codex

Assembling an Astra Militarum army is like putting together the perfect battlefield machine—every squad, tank, and artillery piece plays a role. Whether you’re starting small with Combat Patrol or going all-in at 2,000 points, this guide breaks down budget-friendly lists, must-have units, and how to collect models without emptying your wallet faster than a Guardsman in a tavern.

Astra Militarum Combat Patrol

Astra Militarum Combat Patrol

The Warhammer 40k Combat Patrol boxes are a great choice for new players who are interested in exploring a particular faction. They offer a quick and easy way to assemble a small army and jump straight into playing games.

These sets are similar to the Start Collecting Sets, which were introduced by GW in 2016They are designed to help players get a feel for the faction and start building their skills right away.

Expanding to 1,000 and 2,000 Points

As you build up, mix in armor, artillery, and specialists to handle a wider range of threats.

1,000 Points – More Dakka, More Control

  • Leman Russ Battle Tank – Because no Guard army is complete without one. Tough, versatile, and capable of erasing squads in a single volley.
  • Death Korps of Krieg Infantry – Tougher than regular troops, perfect for mid-board objectives and holding the line when things get messy.
  • Manticore – Fires from safety, dropping devastating barrages on anything hiding in cover. If you like making opponents nervous, this is your artillery piece.

2,000 Points – Heavy Metal & Tactical Plays

  • Baneblade – When you need to make a statement, bring a super-heavy tank that erases entire units and absorbs punishment like a fortress on tracks.
  • Rough Riders / Death Riders – Speed + melee power = an unexpected headache for your opponent. Charge them in and watch enemy units disappear.
  • Tempestus Scions – Deep-strike specialists that land where they’re needed most, unleash plasma death, and grab key objectives before anyone can react.

Collecting Astra Militarum Miniatures

Where to Get Astra Militarum Models

Plastic crack is expensive, but there are ways to build an army without breaking the bank. Snag your new goodies from our handpicked list of retailers, and give us a high-five in support! Every qualifying purchase helps Spikey Bits keep the lights on and the fun going. 

Quick Order Links Get 15% Off or More:

Mid Atlantic US: Fabricators Forge | Bazooka Games | Frontline Gaming (West Coast US) | The Rogue Traders | Central US: Dicehead Games | Noble Knight GamesWarpfire Minis | West Coast US: Squadmarks

Worldwide: Amazon | eBay| or | Games Workshop’s Store | UK: Element Games (UK) | Merlin’s Minis | Wayland Games | Canada: Tista MinisAbyss Game Store | Kingdom Titans |

You can save even more on your purchase by using our exclusive list of redeemable discount codes from some of the best hobby retailers and miniature manufacturers!  

Tips for Building and Painting Your Army

Painting Death Korps of Krieg 2Building:

  • Sub-assembly method – Keep tank turrets, arms, and big guns separate to make painting easier.
  • Magnetize where possible – Especially for vehicles and weapon teams, so you can swap loadouts without needing extra models.

Painting:

  • Prime in grey or white – Makes colors pop and saves time on lighter uniforms.
  • Simple but effective – Basecoat → Wash → Highlight keeps units looking great without excessive work.
  • Cadian Colors: Green armor, khaki fatigues—classic, clean, and lore-friendly.
  • Death Korps Aesthetic: Muted greys and blues make them grimdark perfection.
  • Weathering & Insignias: Little details like battle damage, unit numbers, and insignias turn basic troops into a cinematic army.

Latest Warhammer 40k Rules Updates 

Balance Datasheet dalatslate warhammer 40k title wal hor 1200

The latest updates for the Astra Militarum 10th Edition rules will be released in what Games Workshop calls a Balance Dataslate, sometimes along with accompanying points changes as well. You can see all the latest Balance Dataslate updates here in our post, which breaks down the most recent changes.

How To Play Warhammer 40k Astra Militarum: Points

Balance Datasheet munitorum points changes warhammer 40k

You can find the latest points for playing this faction in 10th Edition Warhammer 40k here on our Munitorum Field Manual Points Updates Page.

FAQs: Astra Militarum (Imperial Guard Codex) Rules in 10th Edition

With the Astra Militarum Codex 10th Edition rolling onto the tabletop, players are asking the big questions coming from the index: Are tanks still king? What units hit the hardest? How do they stack up against other factions? If you’re looking to command the Emperor’s finest with confidence, here’s everything you need to know.

Common Questions About the Astra Militarum Codex

Death Korps Unboxing ArtilleryAre Imperial Guard Tanks Still Viable in the Codex?

Oh, absolutely. Tanks are still the backbone of the Astra Militarum (Imperial Guard) codex and 10th Edition makes sure they hit like a freight train, just like in the index.

  • Leman Russ Battle Tank – Tough, reliable, and packing a Battle Cannon that shreds infantry and light vehicles alike. Throw in an Order, and suddenly, it’s even nastier.
  • Rogal Dorn – The new heavy hitter, built like a walking fortress with insane weapon flexibility and tanky defensive stats.
  • Baneblade – The “no subtlety, just destruction” choice. This behemoth still melts entire squads and vehicles like it’s an afternoon training exercise.

So, whether you want precise tank shots or an entire battlefield erased in one go, Astra Militarum tanks still deliver from the index to codex.

What Are the Most Effective Units in 10th Edition?

  • Cadian Shock Troops – Reliable, objective-holding infantry that can pack plasma guns or grenade launchers for extra firepower.
  • Death Korps of Krieg – Tougher infantry that keep fighting even when Battle-shocked, making them perfect for mid-board engagements.
  • Manticores & Basilisks – Still the best artillery in the game. Manticores delete infantry blobs, while Basilisks harass anything that thinks it’s safe in cover.
  • Rough Riders – Fast-moving melee cavalry that hit hard and disrupts enemy backlines—a rare but deadly mobility option for Astra Militarum (and still works just as well from the index).

Whether you’re looking for durability, raw firepower, or unexpected speed, these units bring serious value to your list.

Death Korps review Death RidersHow Do the Astra Militarum Compare to Other Factions?

Strengths and Weaknesses in the Meta

Strengths:

  • Board Control – Infantry swarm + tanks = map domination.
  • Firepower – No one brings more guns to the fight.
  • Orders System – Tactical flexibility that buffs units exactly when needed.

Weaknesses:

  • Mobility Issues – Infantry is slow, so positioning is everything.
  • Melee Weakness – Guard doesn’t like close combat, so screen key units with expendable squads.
  • Against hyper-mobile armies like Eldar or Genestealer Cults, you’ll need careful deployment and smart positioning to stay in control.

Final Thoughts on the New Astra Militarum Codex Rules, PDF, & Index Changes: Why Play Astra Militarum?

death korps of krieg art with reaver titan warhammer 40k hor walThe Astra Militarum (Imperial Guard) Codex 10th Edition and PDFs nail the identity and rules of the Imperial Guard—tanks that hit like a sledgehammer, infantry that never quits, and artillery that dictates the flow of battle and really do a good job of expanding the index.

army is straightforward to play but packed with tactical depth. Whether you’re here for the epic tanks, the massed ranks of infantry, or the absolute joy of rolling handfuls of dice, the Astra Militarum delivers.

If you want to stand as the Emperor’s shield, hold the line, and win through superior firepower, there’s no better army for the job.

Check Out the Value of the New Astra Militarum Combat Patrol!

What do you think about the new Warhammer 40k Imperial Guard (Astra Militarum) Codex rules, PDFs, changes from the index and our 10th Edition review and guide on how to play them?

About the Author: Travis Pasch

travis pasch writer headshot profile bio

Travis Pasch

Job 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!