Ultramarines are one of the most iconic and celebrated Space Marine Chapters in the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Here’s an overview of their background, characteristics, and role within the lore:
Background and Origins
Founding: The Ultramarines are one of the original Space Marine Legions created during the Great Crusade by the Emperor of Mankind.
Primarch: Their Primarch is Roboute Guilliman, a brilliant strategist and statesman who played a crucial role in shaping the Imperium.
Homeworld: The Ultramarines hail from the planet Macragge, located in the Ultramar Segmentum, a prosperous and well-defended region of space.
Characteristics and Doctrine
Codex Astartes: Guilliman authored the Codex Astartes, a comprehensive guide to Space Marine organization and tactics. The Ultramarines strictly adhere to its tenets, and many other Chapters follow its guidelines as well.
Discipline and Tactics: The Ultramarines are renowned for their discipline, tactical flexibility, and strict adherence to doctrine. They excel in a variety of combat scenarios, from large-scale battles to precise strikes.
Symbol: Their Chapter symbol is a white omega on a blue background, and their armor is predominantly blue with gold accents.
Organization
Chapter Structure: Following the Codex Astartes, the Ultramarines are organized into ten companies, each with its own specialized role. The 1st Company consists of veteran warriors, while the 10th Company is composed of Scouts.
Leadership: The current Chapter Master is Marneus Calgar, a legendary warrior and leader. Guilliman, their Primarch, has also returned to lead the Imperium in the current timeline.
Notable Campaigns and Battles
The Battle of Macragge: During the First Tyrannic War, the Ultramarines defended their homeworld from the Tyranid Hive Fleet Behemoth. This battle showcased their resilience and tactical prowess.
The Plague Wars: Guilliman led the Ultramarines against the Death Guard and other Chaos forces in the Ultramar Sector, fighting to defend and reclaim Imperial worlds from corruption.
The Indomitus Crusade: Following his resurrection, Guilliman launched the Indomitus Crusade to stabilize and reclaim lost Imperial territories, with the Ultramarines playing a pivotal role.
Legacy and Influence
Model of a Space Marine Chapter: The Ultramarines are often seen as the archetype of a Space Marine Chapter, embodying the ideals and standards set forth by the Emperor and the Codex Astartes.
Influence on Other Chapters: Many successor Chapters of the Ultramarines, known as the Primogenitors, share their values and organizational structure. These Chapters look to the Ultramarines as a source of inspiration and guidance.
Cultural Impact: Within the Imperium, the Ultramarines are revered as paragons of virtue, discipline, and military excellence. They are celebrated in Imperial propaganda and regarded as heroes by the populace.
Notable Figures
Roboute Guilliman: The Primarch of the Ultramarines, known for his strategic genius and efforts to rebuild the Imperium after the Horus Heresy.
Marneus Calgar: The current Chapter Master, renowned for his leadership and combat skills. He has led the Ultramarines through numerous campaigns and remains a key figure in their continued success.
Cato Sicarius: The Captain of the 2nd Company, known for his bold and often reckless strategies that have earned him both admiration and criticism.
Current Role in the Lore
Defenders of Ultramar: The Ultramarines continue to defend their home sector and the wider Imperium from threats both within and without.
Primarch’s Vision: With Guilliman’s return, the Ultramarines are at the forefront of his efforts to reform and stabilize the Imperium, facing new and old enemies with unwavering determination.
The Ultramarines stand as a symbol of order, discipline, and unyielding loyalty to the Emperor, making them a central and enduring part of the Warhammer 40,000 universe.