Aggressors - The Case for Making Them Close Support

[ChapterMasterGodfrey]

Hello brothers,

 

I'd like to start by saying this proposed distinction is purely a lore one. I know "Fast Attack" has been gone for a while now.

 

I propose that Aggressors should be Close Support and not Fire Support. 

 

Allow me to start by dissecting the definition given for Close Support as found on the Wiki (stated sources: Codex: Space Marines (8th Edition, Revised Codex), pg. 70. Codex: Space Marines (9th Edition), pp. 141, 165.):

"A Close Support Squad is a tactical designation applied to Space Marine combat squads. Close support squads are the clenched fist, the killing blow of an Astartes formation, and represent its melee and heavy assault units."

 

Squads described as the "clenched fist", or as "heavy assault units" could not be describing Aggressors more if they tried. Note how nowhere in the definition was speed mentioned. Close Support no longer means Fast attack and hasn't since the crossed arrows were placed on the Centurian Assault Squad.

 

No, the primary defining features of a Close Support unit are short range guns and melee threat (begs the question about Incursors). Bolt/Flame Storm Gauntlets and Power Fists. I think Aggressors should be THE Gravis Close Support unit. I won't mention my distain for Inceptors here (but that was the inspiration to go looking for an alternative to them).

 

Yes, it might look strange at first to put a yellow helmet on an Aggressor in a Blood Angels army but I think it's for the best. Just think, imagine an Aggressor datasheet where each fist is treated separately. The ranged weapon slot can be a Bolt Storm, Flame Storm, an Inferno Pistol, a Grav Pistol, Plasma Pistol, Neo-Volkite Pistol OR forego ranged for a Chainfist. Mix and match the range options or take twin versions for twin-linked.

 

If you like the sound of this, you can find this datasheet and similar ones in my upcoming fan Space Marine Codex.

 

Mods, please let me know if I’ve tagged appropriately.