We’ve been asked for these miniatures a lot recently so here they are in all their seaborne glory.
The Romans fielded all manner of specialist troops over their extensive empire, many who’s roles are still to be seen today in existing armies.
Here we present the Marines, who fought all over the known world as detachments on naval ships, accompanied merchant ships on occasion and also took part in amphibious operations.
They are not much written about, and our models are based on best guess and evidence that we have available to us. We have given them non ferrous helmets as the last thing you need is more iron to clean of rust! Chain mail rather than Lorica we thought more appropriate to the flexibility of their tasks, and a more manageable shield (with appropriate naval markings of course) Spear and javelin rather than heavy pilum and a good warm cloak complete our study of these tough fellows.
Steve Hales at Little Big Men Studios has kindly produced a great-looking sheet of transfers for the Marines that will finish your unit off superbly. You can get hold of them here.
You can add these naval types to you Roman army here.
The vagaries of the postal system has stopped us bringing you fully painted examples so all being well we’ll show those off next week!
Tom Mecredy