Mark 3a
This phase was the standard for Legiones
Astartes for several thousand years before it was recently
overhauled. It is still commonly seen on the battlefield.
It is essentially a Mark3 prototype with visible modifications
in the form of improved heat sink intakes (above the head)
and a new helm. So effective was its design that Terminators
suits were employed for a far wider array of missions than
the tunnel-based actions they had previously been confined
to. Developments in articulation and balance systems mean
that the suit is very versatile and broken, boggy and slippery
ground no longer prove hazardous. Hence Mark 3a suits have
been used for trench warfare, desert conflicts, ice-world
pacifications and operations in the dense undergrowth of
Agri Worlds.
Notes & Sources:
The Mark 3a was the first phase of
Terminator development to be a “fully fledged”
troop type. The range includes captains, Librarians, Grey
Knights, Inquisitors as well as Traitor variations (though
no Chapter-specific designs at this stage). It was also
the first range to be augmented by an array of weaponry.
This includes close combat variations (Lightening Claws,
Thunder Hammer & Stormshield combinations, Power swords
and Chain Fists) and heavy weaponry (Heavy Flamers, Assault
Cannon and Cyclone missile launchers) as well as psionic
equipment. The elements retain a slight curvilinear quality
inherited from the Mark 1, which is the most visible way
it differs from the latest phase (Mark 3b). It is common
for the large surfaces to sport chapter icons, personal
heraldry and kill markings. The feathered wings on the chest
plastron are another feature that the Mark 7 standard Marine
armour inherited from Terminator development.
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