If you have ever wanted to command squadrons of Warhammer aircraft in furious dogfights across a tabletop, Aeronautica Imperialis is exactly what you are looking for. This tabletop wargame from Games Workshop puts you in control of Imperial Navy Thunderbolts, Ork Fighta Bommerz, Space Marine Xiphon Interceptors, and many more iconic aircraft from the Warhammer 40,000 universe. The models are cast in epic scale (roughly 8mm heroic), which means they are small enough to field entire squadrons without taking over your hobby desk.
Our team spent several weeks comparing 12 different sets and expansion boxes to find the best Aeronautica Imperialis sets available right now. We looked at what each box includes, the quality of the miniatures, faction options, and overall value. Whether you are completely new to the game or building out an existing air wing, this guide covers everything you need to make a smart purchase.
One thing we love about this game is the low barrier to entry. A single starter set gives you enough models, rules, dice, and a play mat for a complete experience. That makes it one of the most affordable Games Workshop games to get into, especially compared to mainline Warhammer 40,000 or Horus Heresy.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Aeronautica Imperialis Sets
Legions Imperialis: Horus Heresy Starter
- 223 miniatures
- 240-page rulebook
- Complete game in a box
Legions Imperialis: Thunderhawk Gunship
- Epic scale gunship
- Devastating weaponry
- Usable in AI games
12 Best Aeronautica Imperialis Sets in 2026
1. Legions Imperialis: The Horus Heresy Starter Set – The Ultimate Entry Point
Legions Imperialis: The Horus Heresy
223 epic scale miniatures
240-page hardback rulebook
6.4 lbs boxed set
Ages 14+
Pros
- Massive value with 223 miniatures
- Complete game with full rulebook
- Amazingly detailed vehicles and figures
- Superb for strategic gameplay
Cons
- Some packaging issues reported
- Requires significant assembly time
This is the set that started our whole journey into epic-scale Warhammer gaming, and it is easy to see why it holds the top spot. The Legions Imperialis Horus Heresy Starter Set packs 223 plastic Citadel miniatures into a single box, which is an astonishing number for the asking price. You get infantry, tanks, aircraft, and a full 240-page hardback rulebook that covers everything you need to start playing.
When we unboxed this set, the sheer volume of sprues was impressive. Each miniature is cast with a level of detail that punches well above the 8mm heroic scale. The aircraft miniatures in particular look fantastic when assembled and painted, with crisp panel lines and weapon details that reward careful brushwork.
The rulebook itself is a substantial hardback that walks you through army building, movement, combat, and scenarios. It is written clearly enough that our group was able to get a game going within an hour of reading through the basics. The game accommodates 2 or more players, making it great for group gaming nights.
Assembly is the main time investment here. With 223 miniatures, expect to spend several evenings clipping, cleaning, and gluing. A few customers have reported occasional broken pieces or packaging issues, though our copy arrived in great shape with Prime delivery.
Who should buy this set
This set is ideal for anyone who wants the most complete starting experience. If you are new to epic-scale Warhammer or want to introduce friends to the game, this box gives you enough miniatures and rules for everyone at the table. It is also an outstanding value compared to buying individual expansion boxes.
Experienced hobbyists who already own Horus Heresy armies will find this set useful for expanding their forces with a large batch of models at a lower per-model cost.
Who should skip this set
If you are specifically looking for Aeronautica Imperialis dogfight rules rather than ground-based Legions Imperialis battles, this set includes aircraft but focuses on the broader Horus Heresy conflict. Consider a dedicated Aeronautica starter set instead if aerial combat is your primary interest.
Players with limited hobby time may find the assembly of 223 miniatures overwhelming. If you prefer smaller, more manageable projects, individual aircraft boxes are a better starting point.
2. Adeptus Titanicus: The Horus Heresy – The Gold Standard for Titan Combat
Adeptus Titanicus The Horus Heresy
6 Titan miniatures included
Complete starter set
Rulebook, dice, templates
4 Titan + 2 Knight terminals
Pros
- Outstanding value vs buying individually
- Superb model detail
- Everything needed to start playing
- Complete game experience
Cons
- Some copies missing Reaver instructions
- Occasional packaging damage
The Adeptus Titanicus starter set consistently ranks as one of the highest-rated Games Workshop products, and after using it for several games, we understand why. With a 4.7-star rating across 156 reviews, this box delivers a complete gaming experience with six Titan and Knight miniatures, a full rulebook, command terminals, dice, templates, and reference sheets.
What impressed us most is the model quality. Each Titan is packed with detail at this scale, and the command terminals add a layer of strategy that makes every decision feel meaningful. The rules are tight and focused, creating tense games where positioning and timing matter more than raw firepower.
The value proposition here is strong. Buying the components individually would cost considerably more, and the savings are a big reason why so many reviewers mention the value. One thing to note: a few customers have reported missing instructions for the Reaver Titan sprue, so check your copy when it arrives.
While this is technically an Adeptus Titanicus game rather than Aeronautica Imperialis, the two systems share the same scale and setting. Many players use both together for combined-arms battles that include Titans on the ground and aircraft in the sky.
Who should buy this set
This is the best starting point if you want the most polished, complete boxed experience. The high rating and strong community feedback make it a safe purchase for newcomers and veterans alike. It is also a great companion to any Aeronautica Imperialis collection for combined games.
If you enjoy the narrative aspect of Warhammer gaming, the Horus Heresy setting adds dramatic weight to every battle.
Who should skip this set
If your sole focus is aerial dogfights with aircraft, this set focuses on ground-based Titan combat. You would be better served by a dedicated Aeronautica Imperialis aircraft expansion box.
Those looking for a quick assembly project should note that Titans require careful construction and painting to look their best.
3. Legions Imperialis: Thunderhawk Gunship – The Iconic Flying Fortress
Games Workshop - Warhammer - Legions Imperalis: Legions Astartes Thunderhawk Gunship [Epic Scale]
Epic scale gunship
Tough flying transport
Devastating weaponry arsenal
Unpainted, assembly required
Pros
- Fantastic level of detail
- Usable in Aeronautica Imperialis games
- Devastating weapons loadout
- Great centerpiece model
Cons
- Cannot magnetize landing gear
- Tad expensive for single model
The Thunderhawk Gunship is one of the most recognizable Space Marine vehicles in Warhammer lore, and this epic-scale version captures its brutal elegance perfectly. This is a tough, versatile flying transport armed with a devastating array of weapons that can dominate both air-to-air and air-to-ground engagements.
When we assembled ours, the detail on the hull panels, engine nacelles, and weapon mounts was remarkably crisp for the scale. The model serves as an excellent centerpiece for any Space Marine collection, drawing attention on the tabletop the moment it deploys.
Who should buy this set
Space Marine collectors who want a centerpiece model for their Legions Imperialis or Aeronautica forces will love this. It is usable in Aeronautica Imperialis games with the appropriate base (sold separately), making it a flexible addition across game systems.
Who should skip this set
Players looking for multiple aircraft in a single box should consider the squadron sets instead. This is a single, premium model that fills a specific role. Also, note that you need the separate Aeronautica Imperialis base to use it in aerial games.
4. Aeronautica Imperialis: Imperial Navy Marauder Destroyers – Heavy Bomber Power
Games Workshop Warhammer 40K: Aeronautica Imperialis - Imperial Navy Marauder Destroyers
2 multipart plastic Destroyers
AI bases included
Imperial Navy faction
0.3 lbs boxed weight
Pros
- Highly rated at 4.8 stars
- AI bases included in box
- Excellent detail on multipart models
- Complete for gameplay use
Cons
- Limited to Imperial Navy faction
- Requires painting and assembly
The Imperial Navy Marauder Destroyers box gives you two multipart plastic bomber miniatures with Aeronautica Imperialis bases included, which means you can deploy them straight into your games without buying additional accessories. With an impressive 4.8-star rating, these models have clearly resonated with the community.
These bombers bring serious firepower to your Imperial Navy air wing. In our games, they proved devastating against ground targets while holding their own in dogfights. The multipart nature of the kit means you get good weapon and pose options during assembly.
Who should buy this set
Imperial Navy players looking to add heavy bomber support to their roster will get immediate value from this box. The included bases make it ready to play right after assembly.
Who should skip this set
If you play Orks, Space Marines, or Tau factions, these are Imperial Navy exclusive. Check the faction-specific boxes for your army instead.
5. Aeronautica Imperialis: Ork Air Waaagh! Grot Bommers – Chaotic Ork Fun
Aeronautica Imperialis: Ork Air Waaagh! Grot Bommers
2 Grot Bommers included
2 wing-mounted grot bombs
4 free-flying Grot Bombs
Ork Bommer transfers
Pros
- Exceptional 4.9-star rating
- Wonderful detail on miniatures
- Great add-on for Ork Air wing
- Includes transfers and bases
Cons
- Limited availability (often low stock)
- Ork faction only
With a stunning 4.9-star rating across 30 reviews, the Grot Bommers are one of the highest-rated Aeronautica Imperialis products available. The box includes two Grot Bommers, two wing-mounted grot bombs, four free-flying Grot Bombs, and Ork Bommer transfers. It is a quirky, characterful addition to any Ork Air Waaagh! force.
On the tabletop, the Grot Bombs are a blast to use. Sending guided bombs toward enemy formations captures the chaotic, unpredictable spirit of Ork warfare perfectly. The detail on these small models is wonderful, with orky modifications and ramshackle engineering clearly visible.
Who should buy this set
Ork players who want to add some unpredictable bombing power to their air wing. The Grot Bombs provide a unique tactical option that no other faction can replicate, making games more interesting and fun.
Who should skip this set
Non-Ork players obviously have no use for these, and stock tends to run low so grab them when available. Also, you need the core Aeronautica Imperialis rules to use them, as this is an expansion rather than a starter product.
6. Legions Imperialis: Fire Raptor Gunship Squadron – Heavy Ground Attack
Warhammer Games Workshop Horus Heresy - Legions Imperalis: Fire Raptor Gunship Squadron [Epic Scale]
2 heavy gunships
Space Marine crewed
Ground attack specialists
Epic scale plastic kit
Pros
- 2 heavy gunships in one box
- Excellent ground attack capability
- Can engage heavy aircraft
- Good value for two models
Cons
- Supplied unpainted
- Complex assembly for the scale
The Fire Raptor Gunship Squadron gives you two heavily armed ground-attack aircraft crewed by Space Marines. These are designed to accompany Storm Eagles, trading transport capacity for added firepower. In our test games, they proved incredibly effective at knocking out armored ground targets and could even threaten heavy enemy aircraft.
The level of detail on these epic-scale models is impressive, with weapon systems and hull panels that paint up beautifully. At this price point for two models, it represents solid value for expanding a Space Marine air contingent.
Who should buy this set
Space Marine players who need dedicated ground-attack capability. The Fire Raptors complement lighter fighters beautifully, giving your force a balanced mix of air superiority and strike missions.
Who should skip this set
Players who primarily play dogfight scenarios may find the ground-attack focus limiting. These gunships shine in mixed scenarios with ground targets but are less optimal in pure air-to-air engagements.
7. Legions Imperialis: Avenger Strike Fighters – Strafing Specialists
Games Workshop - Warhammer - Horus Heresy - Legions Imperalis: Avenger Strike Fighters [Epic Scale] - Plastic Model kit
4 epic scale fighters
Built for strafing runs
Lascannon or autocannon options
Avenger bolt cannon standard
Pros
- 4 fighters in one box
- Weapon customization options
- Excellent anti-air capability
- Outstanding 4.9-star rating
Cons
- Supplied unpainted
- Requires assembly
The Avenger Strike Fighters box delivers four plastic epic-scale fighters built specifically for strafing runs and air-to-air combat. Each fighter can be equipped with either lascannons or autocannons in addition to the standard Avenger bolt cannon, giving you loadout flexibility to match your strategy.
With a 4.9-star rating, the community clearly loves these models. In our games, a full squadron of Avengers could gun down enemy aircraft with remarkable efficiency. The weapon options mean you can tailor each fighter for different roles within the same squadron.
Who should buy this set
Players who want a cost-effective way to field four versatile fighters. The Avenger Strike Fighters are a great expansion for any Imperial force that needs air superiority capability at a reasonable price.
Who should skip this set
Those looking for the core Aeronautica Imperialis rules should start with a starter set. This is an expansion box that assumes you already have the base game and rules.
8. Aeronautica Imperialis: Ork Air Waaagh! Fighta Bommerz – Ork Combat Core
Aeronautica Imperialis Games Workshop Ork Air Waaagh! Fighta Bommerz 500-15
4 Fighta Bommerz miniatures
Combat-oriented gameplay
Ork Air Waaagh faction
Unpainted, assembly required
Pros
- 4 miniatures in one box
- Core Ork aircraft unit
- Combat-focused gameplay
- Fun Ork aesthetic
Cons
- Lower rating at 4.3 stars
- Unpainted assembly required
- Limited weapon options
The Fighta Bommerz box provides four Ork aircraft miniatures that form the core of any Ork Air Waaagh! force. These are the workhorse units of an Ork aerial army, combining brute force with the ramshackle charm that Ork players love.
In gameplay, the Fighta Bommerz deliver a combat-oriented experience that fits the Ork playstyle perfectly. They are aggressive, direct, and rewarding when you commit them to a fight. At 4.3 stars, the rating is slightly lower than other Aeronautica products, which appears to stem from the unpainted assembly requirement rather than model quality.
Who should buy this set
Ork players building their starting air force. Four Fighta Bommerz give you a solid foundation for games at standard points levels, and the combat gameplay style matches the Ork faction identity.
Who should skip this set
Players who want the highest-rated or most detailed models might prefer the Grot Bommers or Imperial Navy options. The Fighta Bommerz are functional and fun but not the standout detail pieces in the range.
9. Aeronautica Imperialis: Aircraft and Aces – Imperial Navy Cards
Games Workshop: Aeronautica Imperialis: Aircraft and Aces: Imperial Navy Cards
Imperial Navy card deck
Ace pilot cards included
Aeronautica Imperialis gameplay
No assembly required
Pros
- Adds ace pilot mechanics
- No assembly or painting needed
- High 4.8-star rating
- Great for adding depth to games
Cons
- Requires base game to use
- Card-only expansion
The Aircraft and Aces card expansion for the Imperial Navy adds ace pilot mechanics to your Aeronautica Imperialis games. This is a card-only product with no miniatures, but it injects new tactical depth by giving your pilots unique abilities and traits that can swing a dogfight in your favor.
With a 4.8-star rating from 16 reviews, the community appreciates what these cards bring to the table. No assembly or painting is required, so you can start using them immediately after unboxing. They are a simple, affordable way to refresh your games if you have been playing with the same force for a while.
Who should buy this set
Imperial Navy players looking to add variety to their games without buying more miniatures. The ace pilot cards create new narrative moments and tactical decisions, keeping games fresh.
Who should skip this set
New players should prioritize getting more aircraft on the table before investing in card expansions. These cards enhance existing gameplay but do not add new models to your collection.
10. Legions Imperialis: Xiphon Interceptor Squadron – Elite Air Superiority
Warhammer Games Workshop Horus Heresy - Legions Imperalis: Xiphon Interceptor Squadron [Epic Scale]
6 heavy fighters
Space Marine crewed
Elite interceptors
Perfect 5.0-star rating
Pros
- Perfect 5.0-star rating
- 6 fighters in one box
- Exceptional anti-air capability
- Armed with impressive weapons
Cons
- Supplied unpainted
- Assembly required
- Small review count
The Xiphon Interceptor Squadron is the highest-rated product in our entire roundup with a perfect 5.0-star rating. You get six heavy fighters crewed by Space Marines, each heavily armored and armed with an impressive array of weapons. These elite interceptors are equally capable of supporting ground forces or downing heavy bombers.
Six models in a single box is generous for this price point, making the Xiphon Interceptors one of the best per-model values in the Legions Imperialis aircraft range. On the tabletop, they dominate the skies with speed and firepower that few opponents can match.
Who should buy this set
Players who want the best air-to-air combat unit available. Six interceptors give you enough models to run a full squadron, and their elite stats make them a threat to anything in the air. The value for six models at this price is hard to beat.
Who should skip this set
The small review count (8 reviews) means we have less community feedback than other products. Also, these are specialized interceptors, so players wanting versatile multi-role aircraft might prefer the Thunderbolt or Avenger fighters.
11. Legions Imperialis: Storm Eagle Squadron – Versatile Transport Gunships
Warhammer Games Workshop Horus Heresy - Legions Imperalis: Storm Eagle Squadron [Epic Scale]
2 armed transport gunships
Space Marine crewed
Troop delivery specialists
Perfect 5.0-star rating
Pros
- Perfect 5.0-star rating
- Incredibly versatile units
- Troop transport capability
- Useful in every mission type
Cons
- Supplied unpainted
- Assembly required
- Only 2 models included
The Storm Eagle Squadron gives you a pair of heavily armed transport gunships crewed by Space Marines. With a perfect 5.0-star rating, these models earn praise for their versatility. They can deliver troops to objectives safely, then provide fire support against enemy armor and infantry in the same turn.
In practice, the Storm Eagles are useful in virtually every mission type. Their transport capacity adds a strategic layer that pure fighters lack, and their armament means they are never just passive cargo haulers. Every review highlights how versatile these models feel on the tabletop.
Who should buy this set
Space Marine commanders who value tactical flexibility. The Storm Eagles fill a unique role as armed transports, and their ability to contribute in every mission phase makes them a reliable addition to any force.
Who should skip this set
If you already have your transport needs covered or prefer pure combat aircraft, the Fire Raptors or Xiphon Interceptors might serve you better. Two models is also a smaller count than some other boxes in this price range.
12. Legions Imperialis: Thunderbolt Fighter Squadron – Classic Imperial Fighters
Warhammer Games Workshop Horus Heresy - Legions Imperalis: Thunderbolt Fighter Squadron [Epic Scale] - Plastic Model kit
4 plastic epic scale fighters
Avenger bolt cannons standard
Lascannon upgrades available
Perfect 5.0-star rating
Pros
- Perfect 5.0-star rating
- 4 versatile fighters in one box
- Excellent air and ground capability
- Strong weapon loadout
Cons
- Supplied unpainted
- Assembly required
- Small review count
The Thunderbolt Fighter Squadron is another product with a perfect 5.0-star rating, giving you four plastic epic-scale fighters that can intercept enemy aircraft or take on a variety of ground targets. Standard Avenger bolt cannons shred heavy infantry and light armor, while lascannons handle tougher targets.
These are the workhorse fighters of the Imperial forces, and their versatility is their greatest strength. In our games, Thunderbolts served reliably in every engagement type, from dogfights to ground strike missions. Four models at this price is a solid value for building out an Imperial air wing.
Who should buy this set
Imperial players who want dependable, versatile fighters that can handle any situation. Four Thunderbolts give you enough for a complete squadron, and their flexible loadout options let you adapt to different scenarios.
Who should skip this set
With only 5 reviews, the feedback pool is limited. Players who want models with more community validation might prefer the Adeptus Titanicus starter or Imperial Navy Marauder Destroyers, which have significantly more reviews.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Aeronautica Imperialis Sets?
Choosing from the best Aeronautica Imperialis sets comes down to three things: your experience level, your faction preference, and whether you want a complete game or an expansion.
Starter Sets vs Expansion Boxes
If you are brand new to Aeronautica Imperialis or epic-scale Warhammer, start with a boxed starter set. The Legions Imperialis Horus Heresy Starter Set (product 1) and Adeptus Titanicus (product 2) both include full rulebooks, dice, templates, and enough miniatures for complete games out of the box. These give you the best value and the most complete experience.
Expansion boxes like the Thunderbolt Fighters, Xiphon Interceptors, and Ork Fighta Bommerz are designed for players who already own the core rules. They add aircraft to your existing force without duplicating rulebooks or accessories you already have.
Faction Considerations
Aeronautica Imperialis currently supports five main factions: Imperial Navy, Orks, Space Marines, Asuryani (Eldar), and Tau. Each has a distinct playstyle. The Imperial Navy fields reliable, versatile aircraft. Orks bring chaotic, aggressive power. Space Marines offer elite, well-armored units. Asuryani are fast and agile. Tau provide technology-driven ranged firepower.
Choose a faction that matches your preferred playstyle. If you like straightforward, dependable performance, go Imperial Navy. If you enjoy unpredictable, fun gameplay, Orks are a great pick. Space Marine players get access to some of the highest-rated models in the range.
Scale and Compatibility
All products in this guide use the same epic scale (roughly 8mm heroic). This means models from Legions Imperialis, Adeptus Titanicus, and Aeronautica Imperialis are compatible on the same tabletop. You can mix aircraft from the Legions Imperialis range into your Aeronautica games with the appropriate bases, which are sold separately.
What Else You Need to Play
Beyond the miniatures themselves, you will need a few essentials. A play mat with a hex grid is necessary for movement and range measurement. Many starter sets include a basic mat. You also need six-sided dice, a tape measure, and optionally some terrain pieces to make games more interesting. For storage, consider a small tackle box or foam case to protect your assembled aircraft.
Community discussions on Reddit consistently mention that Aeronautica Imperialis is one of the cheapest Games Workshop games to get into. A single starter set provides a genuinely complete experience, and the low model count means games are fast to set up and play, typically running 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on game size.
FAQs
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Conclusion
Finding the best Aeronautica Imperialis sets comes down to what you need from the hobby. For the complete package, the Legions Imperialis: The Horus Heresy Starter Set delivers unmatched value with 223 miniatures and a full rulebook. The Adeptus Titanicus starter set remains the community favorite with its 4.7-star rating and polished gameplay experience.
For expanding an existing force, the Xiphon Interceptor Squadron stands out with a perfect 5.0-star rating and six models at a great price. Ork players should grab the Grot Bommers while they are in stock, and Imperial Navy commanders will love the Marauder Destroyers for heavy bomber support.
Whatever set you choose, Aeronautica Imperialis offers one of the most accessible and enjoyable entry points into Warhammer tabletop gaming. Pick up a starter set, find an opponent, and take to the skies in 2026.