Unit of the Week: Terrax-pattern Termite Assault Drill

[Jolemai]

Welcome to part four of the Blood Angels Unit of the Week Series!

Following the release of the 8^th edition Codex, there is no better time to discuss all the units we have access to. Each week a different unit will appear, with the idea being that we discuss how best to use that model on the battlefield. Where part one will focus on the unique BA units and part two will focus on BA units that are new to this edition of the Codex, part three will discuss how to get the best use the generic units from the past that are still with us (and that many of us have in our armies still), and part four will discuss the Legends units that we still own and love.

Note, this isn't to lament any nerfs, etc, from previous editions; the rules are as they are so try to unlock its potential for those who wish to use them all the same. Similarly, this thread is only for using the option being discussed; it matters not if you feel something is a better choice as such comments aren't constructive to the topic and shall be removed.

Without further ado, here's this week's entry:

Terrax-pattern Termite Assault Drill

What are you thoughts here folks? How best would you use the Termite (datasheet is currently a download on the Forge World website)?

• To compliment a list, or to build a list around? Will the beta rules affect your list(s)?
• Will you be running multiple units?
• What units (if any) will you be transporting and how will they be equipped?
• What optional weapons choices are you taking and does the above affect how you run them?
• Are you buffing this unit? If so, how?
• Stratagems of note?

Over to you.

[Jolemai]

Should you want your model on display here (or on another thread from the series), then submit a photo here please.

[Jolemai]

In layman's terms, we have a Drop Pod that arrives on T2/T3 that has teeth and can move around. In an era where board control is going to be huge for us, this can be an alternative way to get non-jump pack stuff up the board safely. It can move on and off objectives, it can eat Overwatch/assault things, and it doesn't have the footprint of an open Drop Pod (pros and cons there, so your mileage may vary depending on your board size).

 

Like all Pods, the cargo is tricky.

• Tacticals for late game objective claiming
• Sternguard/Veterans
• Heavy flamer Devastators post C:SM codex
• Scout+character bomb (or other minor assault units) for harassment

Here, I don't know. Niche units can sometimes have a niche/gimmicky role so it really depends on your play style. As for how many, well it currently counts towards your reserve limit so perhaps one, maybe two at a push as a reinforcement/distraction.

[Damon Nightman]

I'm checking battlescribe and see two different entries for the termite drill and am not sure which rules/points I'd legally use in a game.

 

I've really wanted one of these bad boys for awhile to deliver some death company. I love the idea of this giant drill charging in alongside the death company.

[Morticon]

I'll be getting one of these end of the month. 

SUPER excited. 

[Jolemai]

I'll be getting one of these end of the month.

 

SUPER excited.

Paint it up and send in a picture ;)

 

How do you plan on using it?

[Jolemai]

I'm checking battlescribe and see two different entries for the termite drill and am not sure which rules/points I'd legally use in a game.

 

I've really wanted one of these bad boys for awhile to deliver some death company. I love the idea of this giant drill charging in alongside the death company.

No idea why there is two. The Terrax-pattern listing is the one that matches the pdf.

[Morticon]

 

I'll be getting one of these end of the month.

 

SUPER excited.

Paint it up and send in a picture

 

How do you plan on using it?

 

 

Im not toooo sure just yet.  But, its either going to be DC or VanVets - a lot will depend on the ints.  Maybe even sternguard!! 

 

The best things for me about this unit is that its T8 and its actually really solid in combat.  Like, not only does it have a fair amount of attacks that hit on a modest 4+, the drill damage on top is GREAT.  

 

And its so well priced. 

[Mandragola]

This does look like a unit that's seriously benefited from the extra wound for Firstborn. It's a pretty great transport. No reason to refer to Battlescribe as the rules are freely available via FW: https://www.forgeworld.co.uk/resources/PDF/Downloads/warhammer_40000_termite_assault_drill_en.pdf.

 

In terms of what to put in it, there are a few limitations. It probably isn't a better delivery method for a lot of shooty stuff than taking a drop pod. It does offer some options for assault units though, as they can stay inside it. I could see a case for having a unit of 5 Sternguard jump out of it and shoot, while some Vanguard vets stayed inside, ready to charge out next turn.