Iron Strategoi

Iron Strategoi armorial with Chapter iconography.

Iron Strategoi Battle-Brother of the 4th Company, 6th Battleline Squad.

**The Iron Strategoi**, originating from the mysterious 13th 'Dark' Founding, is a chapter that diverge from Codex norms, their origins obscured in the labyrinthine records of the Adeptus Mechanicus. In alignment with many other chapters, they've forged a symbiotic alliance with the Adeptus Mechanicus, specifically with the sect overseen by Archmagos Dominus Belisarius Cawl. This unique relationship has proven mutually advantageous, funneling an array of top-tier Equipment into the hands of the Iron Strategoi. It has also strategically positioned the chapter at the forefront for Primaris reinforcements, a boon that became particularly vital following their severe losses during the fall of Phanodes II in the 13th Black Crusades.

These marines are claimed to be sons of the Gorgon focusing their skills heavily on heavy weapons, Siege warfare and architecture. The tireless marines of this chapter also utilize augmentations and have an abundance of expert techmarines just like their so called brothers among the Iron Hand successor chapters.

Favoring the most formidable battlefronts, the Iron Strategoi exhibit an unwavering commitment to ruthlessly crush the enemies of the Imperium with unparalleled efficiency. Their expertise lies in swift assessments of fortifications and emplacements, discerning their strengths and weaknesses with precision. Legend has it that the very stone and earth communicate with them on a profound level, offering insights into the intricacies of the terrain and fortifications they encounter.

## Chapter History

Amidst the tumultuous state of the administratum during this pivotal phase in the Imperium's protracted and blood-stained history, the precise origins of this chapter remain elusive. Whispers circulating within the Adeptus Mechanicus suggest the discovery of a lost Great Crusade-era ship emerging from the warp in proximity to Ryza. Interestingly, Archmagos Belisarus Cawl was in the system and managed to reach the ship before others.

The events that unfolded aboard this venerable vessel, however, have been regrettably erased from the annals of Imperium records, shrouded in the enigmatic veil of secrecy that characterizes so much of the Imperium's history.

## Notable Campaigns

### The Annihilation Heth'lek (ca. 743.M41)

During the early years of the Damocles Gulf Crusade, the Tau sought to circumvent the Imperium's defensive lines by expanding north. They successfully turned the planetary government of the Rethilas system into Heth'lek, swiftly converting the human populace into their fire-cast auxiliary, outfitting the garrison with new weapons and shoring up their defenses with Tau technology. In response to this northern encroachment, the Lord General of the Astra Militarum urgently summoned a nearby chapter for assistance in countering this territorial flanking.

In a decisive reply, the Iron Strategoi dispatched three companies of marines accompanied by two regiments of Imperial Guard to systematically eradicate the xenos threat and traitorous elements from the Rathilas system. As the Tau survivors recounted, "The day the Imperial forces arrived was the day that the sun was blocked from the sky." Methodically, continent by continent, province by province, and city by city, the combined forces of the Space Marines and Imperial Guard purged the planet of xenos and traitors. By the campaign's end, nothing remained but rubble, ash, and a sky darkened by the aftermath of the cleansing.

### First Tyrannic War (ca. 745.M41)

In the wake of the annihilation of Heth'Lek, the Tyranid Hive Fleet Behemoth swiftly descended upon the eastern reaches of the galaxy, catching the Imperial forces stationed at Heth'Lek off guard. The shadow in the warp, shrouding any forewarning, allowed the Tyranids to devour whatever remnants were left on the planet. Two Space Marine companies and the majority of the two Guard regiments, initially sent to quell the Tau forces on Heth'Lek, were decimated and consumed by the ravenous Hive Fleet.

Retreating to the Phanodes system, the Iron Strategoi reinforced the formidable defenses, gathering the lost Guard regiments left without guidance due to complications caused by the shadow in the warp. As Hive Fleet Behemoth assailed the ramparts with relentless force, managing to overrun two of the four inhabited planetoids, the Phanodes system faced a dire threat. The insatiable tide of Tyranids surged against the walls of Phanodes II, even assaulting the Fortress Monastery of the Iron Strategoi, known as "The Hall of Titans," bringing both chapter and planet to their knees.

Only when the Ultramarines struck at the heart of Hive Fleet Behemoth did the Tyranids besieging the chapter falter. This crucial intervention allowed the defending forces to mount a counter-push via the Imperial fleet of the system, annihilating the Hive ships and bombarding the devour pools, preventing the ground Tyranids from replenishing their forces rapidly enough. The Imperial forces then cleansed the two remaining inhabited worlds, regrouped, and pressed forward to eradicate the Tyranid scourge from the last two habitable planets.

### Fulcrum Relay incident (ca. 950.M41)

[Records censored by order of the Ordo Xenos] Not much is known about these strange events. Initially a mission to purge gene-stealer mutants the mission turned into a full massacre of the 2nd company, with hints of strange metallic creatures in the damaged recordings retrieved by the chapter investigation squad.

### Norastrad Crusade Incident (ca. 003.M42)

An incident involving a Black Templar Crusade, marking their initial encounter with a chapter incorporating Primaris Marines. The specifics of this encounter have since been classified by the Adeptus Administratum, a measure taken to avert additional inquiry and potential friction between the involved chapters.

### The Reclaimation of "The Anvil of Worlds" (ca. 09.M42)

Amidst the enduring years of the Indomitus Crusade, the Iron Strategoi, driven by an unyielding commitment to reclaim their honor, faced the ceaseless onslaught of Chaos and Xenos forces. They plunged deep into the galactic east, fighting alongside the indomitable Crusade Fleet to reclaim every inch of Ultramar. When the Crusade Fleet eventually merged with the forces of Macragge, the Iron Strategoi, guided by their unswerving resolve, diverged from the main force. Their Chapter fleet, accompanied by select Crusade units, charted a course northward, navigating towards the perilous edge of the Maelstrom to safeguard the remnants of their home system and the surrounding region.

Upon their arrival near the system, the chapter was greeted by a surprising stroke of fortune—a testament to the unwavering favor of the Emperor. At the edge of the Maelstrom, a dormant Star Fortress awaited, but it was not alone. A small fleet of the Iron Reavers a warband of Iron Warriors, encircled it, posing a traitorous threat to the Imperium. Seizing this opportune moment, the Crusade battle group deftly exploited the disruptive nature of the Maelstrom, veiling their approach as the heretical forces endeavored to activate the dormant Star Fortress.

In a display of strategic prowess and unwavering might, the full force of the Iron Strategoi Chapter, along with their Crusade comrades, initiated a bold siege on the inactive Star Fortress and its surrounding traitor fleet. To maintain the element of surprise, they engaged the enemy fleet, preventing reinforcements from reaching the Star Fort with ground troops. Simultaneously, loyalist boarding parties infiltrated the Star Fort, plunging into a relentless and bloody conflict. Each gained bulkhead became a somber marker of the fierce battle, measured in the sacrifice of Astra Militarum, loyalist Space Marines, and Chaos adversaries.

Gradually and methodically, the heretical forces were purged from the Star Fort, their fleet left in tatters. The corrupting influence, a lingering stain from the Dark Mechanicum, met its demise at the hands of diligent Tech Priests from the Mechanicus. With the purging complete, the adept techs resurrected the dormant quantum drives and repaired the Gellar field generator. The revitalized Star Fort was then transported to the nearest capable dry dock for extensive maintenance.

After months of meticulous repairs, the Star Fortress was bestowed upon the Iron Strategoi as a replacement for their lost world, now christened the "Anvil of Worlds." A symbol of resilience and transformation, this formidable bastion held the power to shape the destinies of countless worlds across the Imperium.

### Plague Wars (ca. 012.M42)

In the aftermath of the Indomitus Crusade and the subsequent stabilization of the Maelstrom region, the Iron Strategoi received orders to traverse the expanse along the Great Rift. Their mission: to thwart Warbands of the Death Guard Traitor Legion seeking to launch attacks on Ultramar from the galactic west. The Iron Strategoi embarked on the challenging task of reclaiming worlds stubbornly held by the Forces of Chaos, dedicating themselves to the arduous process of rebuilding and fortifying these planets to repel any future incursions.

## Chapter Homeworld

The ancestral homeworld of the Iron Strategoi, was originally a Mountainous satellite to a colossal gas giant known as Phanodes II. Situated in the eastern reaches of the Ultima Segmentum, beyond the turbulent Maelstrom zone and the galactic core, it stood as a testament to the Chapter's origins. However, following the cataclysmic events of the 13th Black Crusade and the subsequent emergence of the Cicatrix Maledictum, Phanodes II met a dire fate. Consumed by the warp storm XV1147.33, the once-stalwart world was swallowed into the turbulent realms of the immaterial, leaving behind only echoes of its former existence.

### Fortress-Monastery

The inaugural home of the Iron Strategoi Chapter resided amid the northern peaks of Phanodes II, bearing the fitting designation of "The Hall of Titans." This venerable monastery was meticulously hewn into the very heart of the mountains, its formidable structure a testament to the craftsmanship of the Chapter. Along the towering flanks of the monastery, colossal statues, monuments of unwavering heroism, rose in solemn tribute to the revered champions of the Chapter's storied history. Each monumental figure stood as a silent guardian, embodying the indomitable spirit and valor that defined the Iron Strategoi.

The Anvil of Worlds came into the forefront shortly after the Iron Strategoi distinguished themselves in the Indomitus Crusade. This colossal fortress stands as a striking emblem, invoking either hope or trepidation, contingent upon the observer's perspective of its grandeur. Nestled within its formidable walls is the strength of the Chapter, augmented by an advanced armory generously gifted by Belisarius Cawl, a testament to their determination and the assurance of triumph in their future endeavors.

## Chapter Organisation

The Iron Strategoi, heavily rely on technology and heavy equipment, relying on a large amount of techmarines. With the chapter following a secular philosophy the need for a chaplaincy has become redundant. Like their purported parent chapter the Iron hands they utilize techmarines in a function similar to that of the Iron fathers. Not only protecting the chapters equipment but also the chapters soul, doubling the amount of techmarines in the chapter. Almost all the officers of the chapters are trained in the ways of Mars as well allowing them to utilize the chapters equipment to the fullest in their tactics.

* **High Siege Lord** - Chapter Master
* **Siege Captain** - Captain
* **Lieutenant**

**Specialist Ranks**

* **Grand Architéktonas** -Master of the Forge
* **Architect** - Techmarine
* **Fleet Master** - Master of the Fleet
* **Chief Archivist** - Chief Librarian
* **Archivist** - Librarian
* **Chief Apothecary**
* **Apothecary**
* **Ancient** - Standard Bearer
* **Damocles** - Champion

**Line Ranks**

* **Overseer** - Sergeant
* **Battle Brother**
* **Wayfinder** - Scout Marine
* **Acolyte** - Neophyte

**Specialist Units & Formations**

* **Praetoria Ferrum** - Elite unit of Dreadnaughts dedicated to the protection of key Chapter locations such as gene vaults or Chapter F.O.B.s
* **Testudo** - 10 man squad formation
* **Trebuchet** - a group of 3 Astraeus Super Heavy Tanks
* **Ballista** - 2 Primaris Firestrike Servo-turrets that work in tandem

Order of Battle

Headquarters

#### Companies

* **1st Veteran Company**
* **2nd Battle Company** - 6 Battleline Squads, 4 Fire Support Squads
* **3rd Battle Company** - 6 Battleline Squads, 4 Fire Support Squads
* **4th Battle Company** - 6 Battleline Squads, 4 Fire Support Squads
* **5th Battle Company** - 6 Battleline Squads, 2 Close Support Squads, 2 Fire Support Squads
* **6th Reserve Battle Company**
* **7th Heavy Armored Company**
* **8th Close Support Company**
* **9th Fire Support Company**
* **10th Wayfinder Company** - Scout Company

## Combat Doctrine

### Siege and Heavy Weapons Specialists

Not having the ability to pull off large sieges of attrition, the key combat strategy the Chapter utilizes heavy weapon assaults on fortifications, never deploying at less than company strength. Phase one of the chapter siege strategy Utilizing their Wayfinder squads to locate, identify and possibly sabotage weaknesses in fortifications. Phase two involves cooperation with the guard for heavy bombardment or if feasible, orbital bombardment focused on the weak or weaken sections of besieged fortifications. Phase three involves an assault spearheaded by heavy weapons vehicles such as the chapters Magma-pattern Astreaus and whirlwind tanks focusing fire on fortified defenses while space marine ground forces rush in behind with guardsman and on rare occasions cohorts of chapter warrior serfs with the goal of bringing the weakened section of a fortification down. Phase four heavily relying on phase three is securing the breach in the fortifications with drop pods or teleportation lock. If all goes well the siege will quickly be resolved, however due to the chaos of battle these tactics are never full proof and the ability to adjust is a requirement for all Siege-Captains of the chapter. Any one of these steps could fail, no plan ever truly survives contact with the enemy, so the ability to improvise and change based on the situation is imperative.

On the defensive, the Iron Strategoi showcase mastery in fortification defense, strategically placing themselves at critical junctures on the battlements to fortify the most vulnerable sections. This allocation allows guardsmen to manage the less challenging areas, ensuring thorough and resilient defense. The chapter seamlessly applies these defensive skills to trench warfare, where the Iron Strategoi assert dominance over adversaries, who often find themselves outmatched by their strategic acumen and proficiency.

## Chapter Culture & Beliefs

"*What was destroyed can be rebuilt.*"
—Anonymous
The Iron Strategoi distinguish themselves as a chapter committed to aiding Imperial worlds in post-conflict reconstruction. Typically, they deploy a solitary Architect and Testudo, accompanied by a contingent of Chapter serfs, to lend their expertise to the citizens in rebuilding. Together, they fortify the devastated world, erecting a robust bastion capable of withstanding future threats. Upon completing their mission, the Testudo and Architect return to the Anvil of Worlds, carrying a tangible memento—a statue or architectural motif—from the world they assisted. This serves as both a keepsake and a poignant reminder of the campaign and the resilient reconstruction achieved on that particular world.

### Ruthless Calculus of War

The Ruthless calculus of war shapes the Iron Strategoi's approach, compelling them to make decisive choices to secure victories and conclude conflicts with optimal efficiency, regardless of the toll on lives. Unfortunately, the burden of sacrifice often falls on the Astra Militarum, who regularly work with the Chapter. Despite employing these forces in the relentless attrition of warfare, the Iron Strategoi value the lives entrusted to them. The Chapter ensures everlasting honor for those who give their lives in service to the Emperor, commemorating their sacrifice within the solemn confines of the "Shrine of the Militarum," located within the hallowed halls of their Fortress-Monastery.

### The Secular Truth

The Iron Strategoi, akin to numerous other chapters, regard the Emperor not as a deity but as the epitome of humanity's potential. While recognizing the necessity of fostering morale through worship among the common populace, the Marines within the chapter often view with disdain those Space Marine Chapters that fervently adhere to the Imperial cult. This sentiment is particularly pronounced following an encounter with the Black Templars. The Iron Strategoi harbor no doubt regarding the powers of the Warp, but they staunchly refrain from deifying them. The chapter nurtures a vehement detestation for Traitor Marines, especially those from loyal gene-lines. With unwavering determination, they methodically dismantle such warbands, eliminating each renegade Marine individually, regardless of the time it takes to achieve justice.

### The Home Like No Other

The Anvil of Worlds while a Chapter Monastery to the Chapter, is much to large for it to utilize to the fullest. So while the central region of the star-fort is dedicated to the chapter and important personnel other sections are dedicated the housing of Astra Militarum and Navis Imperialis groups, even the Adeptus Mechanicus has a section they can call home on the fortress. The Chapter Monastery is also uniquely home to a few communities of imperial civilians, these civilians often are educated and work with the other four groups on the Monastery. They act as teachers, workers, soldiers, Chapter serfs and possible recruits for the Chapter itself.

## Chapter Recruitment

When the Iron Strategoi dispatch the Testudo of Marines accompanied by a contingent of chapter serfs, the latter embark on a meticulous search across the planet. Their mission: to identify promising candidates among the children of labor crews, scholas, and under-hives. Typically, these young individuals display above-average intelligence or assertiveness. The chapter also extends its selection to include civilians within the communities residing on the Chapter Monastery itself.

Once identified, these potential aspirants undergo scrutiny from the Architect, receiving the final seal of approval before progressing to the next phase. The chosen candidates then face the Challenge Trial, pitted against a Battle-Brother in a test of intuition and strength. Those who endure for more than 10 seconds, or in the exceedingly rare event of an aspirant besting a Battle-Brother, earn the opportunity to advance to the next stage of training to become full Marines. However many aspirants die in this phase of the recruitment process.

The training regimen includes extensive education in architecture, geology, siege warfare, and eventual martial training. Those who survive this rigorous process undergo the implantation of their progenoid glands. If they endure the implantation, they embark on a lifelong journey of learning from the crucible of war. As for those who do not pass the implantation process and survive, they still contribute as Chapter serfs and serve as equerries to prominent NCOs and Officers within the chapter.

## Deathwatch Service

The Iron Strategoi so far have not had any marines sent to the Long Vigil in service to the Deathwatch.

## Chapter Gene-Seed

As descendants of [REDACTED], the Marines stemming from this esteemed gene-line manifest heightened problem-solving capabilities and exceptional intelligence. With each successive generation of progenoid glands meticulously developed by the acolytes of Belisarius Cawl, efforts have been made to mitigate the inherent flaws present in the original first founding legion's gene-seed. While the flaw persists to some extent, the Iron Strategoi Chapter exemplifies the superior qualities of [REDACTED], showcasing a distinctive affinity for both the art of destruction and the skillful construction of fortifications. In addition to their elevated intelligence, these valiant warriors demonstrate finely honed abilities in engineering and architecture, standing as proud bearers of their gene-line's legacy.

### Genetic Flaws

The subtle yet persistent flaws inherited from [REDACTED] remain, even with gene-modifications designed to mitigate the risks associated with the Primarch's gene-flaw. As a consequence, the Marines of the Iron Strategoi harbor a natural suspicion toward individuals they deem untrustworthy or difficult to comprehend. This wariness can escalate into outright paranoia if those perceived as unknown or untrustworthy approach closely guarded secrets. In such cases, individuals who venture too close to sensitive information are prone to mysteriously disappearing.

However, the chapter prefers a subtler approach over outright elimination. Rather than resorting to killings that might draw undue attention, the Iron Strategoi often choose misdirection to divert those with prying eyes, a tactic distinct from the more direct methods employed by chapters like the Dark Angels. This strategic approach allows the Iron Strategoi to safeguard their secrets while maintaining a level of discretion and avoiding unnecessary scrutiny.

## Notable Members

    **High Siege Lord Gallus Nybin** - Gallus Nybin presently serves as the Chapter Master of the Iron Strategoi, having been recruited shortly after the events of the First Tyrannic War. His career followed a conventional trajectory, rising through the ranks to become Siege-Captain of the 6th Company. However, a pivotal moment occurred during the heavily censured events of "The Fulcrum Relay Incident," leading to his lateral transfer to Siege-Captain of the 2nd Company.

By the time of the Third Tyrannic War, Gallus had firmly established himself in the 2nd Company, playing a crucial role in assisting the Inquisition in redirecting Hive Fleet Leviathan towards Octarius. Notably, during the Siege and subsequent Fall of Phanodes II, Gallus seized the fabled chapter Relic Thunder Hammer, "Iron Judgement," from the remains of the Fallen High Siege Lord Pontius. He wielded this legendary weapon to repel a Red Corsair incursion into the Chapter Monastery.

As Phanodes II succumbed to a warpstorm, the remaining Siege-Captains unanimously agreed that Gallus should ascend to the esteemed role of High-Siege Lord. In this capacity, he has steadfastly led the Iron Strategoi to the present day.

**Grand Architéktonas Tyrus Vel** -The venerable Master of the Forge of the Iron Strategoi serves as both mentor and advisor to High-Siege Lord Gallus Nybin, embodying a role of profound importance within the chapter. Tasked with the upkeep of the chapter's technological relics, including the High-Siege Lord's Cataphractii plate and Keeper Lucius Thons' Leviathan Dreadnought chassis.

Much like Iron Father Feirros of the Iron Hands, he not only oversees the chapter's technological secrets but also nurtures its spirit. For the past four centuries, he has dutifully served as the trusted advisor to successive High-Siege Lords, offering wisdom and guidance steeped in centuries of experience.

**Damocles Dakon Voss** - The revered Champion of the Iron Strategoi, began his journey as an aspiring Techmarine until a tragic turn of events altered the course of his destiny. The loss of his mentor in a fierce battle against the Orks thrust Voss into the crucible of war, and in the wake of this harrowing experience, he seized his mentor's Omnissian Axe. Transformed into a living embodiment of unbridled fury, Voss channeled his grief and anger into a relentless pursuit of vengeance, focusing his formidable strength on confronting the champions and leaders of the chapter's enemies. With the Omnissian Axe in hand, he became a force to be reckoned with, a symbol of indomitable resolve and unwavering dedication to vanquishing those who threaten the Imperium.

**Keeper Lucius Thon** - This venerable Dreadnought stands as the longest-serving Marine within the Iron Strategoi. As a living testament to the chapter's founding, he rightfully carries the title of "Keeper of the Ancient Wisdom." Operating the chapter's sole Leviathan Siege Dreadnought chassis, his remarkable mental stability is a testament to his enduring resilience despite his age. Nevertheless, the cracks in his mind have become increasingly apparent and exacerbated over the passing centuries.

## Chapter Fleet (Notable Vessels)

**Star Fortress**

* **Anvil of Worlds** - Fortress-Monastery

**Battle Barges**

* **The Iron Acropolis** - Original Flagship of the Chapter
* **The Hastatis Spear**

**Strike Cruisers**

* **The Emperor's Hoplon**
* **The Lord of Steel**
* **The Burden of Iron**

**Escort Frigates**

* **The Blade of Phanodes** - Sword Class Frigate
* **The Iron Forged Will** - Sword Class Frigate
* **The Oath of Iron Will** - Gladius Frigate
* **The Sentinel of the Maelstrom** - Gladius Frigate

## Chapter Relics

* **Iron Judgement** - a powerful two-handed Graviton Maul wielded by the High Siege Lord. A weapon from the later stages of the Great-Crusade era found in the grip of an advanced but destroyed automaton aboard the very ship the first generation of Iron Strategoi were founded. This weapon utilizes powerful electromagnetic generators that release a powerfull pulse with each impact. Extremely effective against heavily armored foes and vehicles alike.
* **Voluntas Ferrea** - Ancient and Powerful Cataphractii Terminator armor dawned by the High Siege Lord of the Chapter. Constantly upgraded by the **Grand Architéktonas** of the chapter.
* **Keeper's Armor** - The Ancient Leviathan pattern Dreadnaught utilized by "The Keeper of the Ancient Wisdom" Lucius Thon.
* **The Last Titan** - The only remaining piece left of the chapter's original homeworld and chapter monastery. This giant pieced together statue now adorns the central spire of the chapter's new home "The Anvil of Worlds". A constant reminder that though they lost during the 13th Black Crusade, they will rebuild and continue on against the odds.

## Special Equipment

* **Magma Pattern Astraeus Super-Heavy Battle Tanks** - These customized tanks are tailored to excel in the siege warfare that defines the Chapter's specialization. The key modification involves replacing the twin Macro-Accelerator Cannons with a singular Volcano Cannon, strategically suited for dismantling walls, obliterating resilient defenses, and engaging formidable heavy vehicles. As experimental Super-Heavy Tanks, these formidable war machines are bestowed upon the Iron Strategoi as tokens of collaboration from the Adeptus Mechanicus, a testament to the close alliance fostered with Belisarius Cawl.

## Chapter Appearance

### Chapter Colours

The Iron Strategoi primarily wear burgundy power armour with portions left gunmetal grey. The Aquila or Imperialis worn on their plastron is gold in colour. Of particular note is their distinctive helmets, which is of an idiosyncratic variant reminiscent of Old Earth's ancient Corinthian-style helmets commonly worn by Grecian soldiers. These helmets are adorned with the dyed horse hair longitudinal crests, which go from front-to-back. Officers can be identified with their unique transverse crests that go from ear-to-ear.

The warriors of this Chapter are also known for wearing their tell-tale balteus-a plate-covered belt - which has five heavy strips of leather and decorated with small plates and studs along its length. These leather strips (epaullettes) also hang from the outer edges of their armorials as well. On the right armorial inset, a stylised squad specialty symbol is prominently displayed (Fire Support, Close Support, Battleline, Veteran or Command) which identified a battle-brother's assigned role.

A large roman numeral stenciled upon the left poleyn (knee guard) indicates a battle-brother's assigned company while a smaller roman numeral stenciled upon the right armorial inset indicates squad assignment.

### Chapter Badge

The Iron Strategoi's Chapter badge consists of a stylised winged Corinthian helm centered above two upward crossed gladii.

## Relations

### Enemies

 T'au Empire |  | Through the Indomitus Crusade it was shown a good counter to the guns of the Tau was to throw warriors at them with an equal affinity with long ranged weaponry like the Iron strategoi. This Chapter has brought many a Tau Colonies to their knees through heavy firepower. The Tau have since made the Iron Strategoi priority targets when they are identified on any given front.

## Notable Quotes

### By the Iron Strategoi

"*The Orks may be boisterous, infantile, simple-minded and at times gullible. But do not under any circumstances underestimate them or you shall learn to late as they rip through your forces in a brutal slaughter.*"
—Fleet Master Rylan Ponakis
"*We calculate the cruelty of war so the consciences of lesser men remain clean, because only we have the will to do so.*"
— High Siege Lord Gallus Nybin
### About the Iron Strategoi

"*No matter the strength of our walls, or the power of our rifles, these monsters dismantled us piece by piece until nothing but gravel remained.*"
—Shas'Vre T'au Narur, Fire Cast Commander of the Planet Heth'lek
"*These Marines are the Emperor's iron will made manifest, no machinations of the mutant, the heretic or of the xenos shall break them. I have the Upmost faith in the Omnissiah that the Iron Strategoi are loyal to a fault.*"
—Archmagos Dominus Belisarius Cawl

Source]

 White Scars Successors
 Space Wolves Successors
 Imperial Fists Successors
 Blood Angels Successors
 Iron Hands Successors
 Ultramarines Successors
 Salamanders Successors
 Raven Guard Successors
 Unknown Lineage

[Source]

## Gallery

High Siege Lord Gallus NybinIron Strategoi helmet markings.Iron Strategoi armorials with squad specialist markings.Iron Strategoi Primaris Heavy Intercessor of the 2nd Company, 4th Battleline Squad.Iron Strategoi Fleet on the attack