Guardian Defenders

In the rare and noble ranks of the Asuryani, each citizen must be prepared for war, standing ready to defend their craftworld if the need arises. Yet, during times of tranquility, these Aeldari embrace pursuits of artistry and civic duties, only to seamlessly transition into warriors when duty calls, donning their war masks to take to the battlefield. The Guardian militia, a force to be reckoned with, proves itself on par with elite Human soldiers, providing unwavering support to the craftworld’s Aspect Warriors, fulfilling roles as infantry, artillery gunners, or vehicle crews.

Within this remarkable kit, you can construct 10 Guardian Defenders, accompanied by a formidable Heavy Weapon Platform. These Guardian Defenders serve as versatile support troops, excelling at holding strategic objectives while unleashing a relentless barrage of fire from their shuriken catapults. Hovering above the battlefield, their Heavy Weapon Platforms can be equipped with an array of powerful guns, capable of shattering enemy armor or mowing down swaths of infantry. The kit also offers a variety of accessories and 11 unhelmeted heads, allowing for customization and character.

In the face of any threat, the Guardian Defenders stand ready to serve as an unyielding bastion, complementing the craftworld’s Aspect Warriors with their exceptional firepower and adaptability. Alternatively, should close-combat prowess be your preference, this kit also provides the option to build Storm Guardians focused on excelling in melee combat.

Also available in this box:

What’s in the Guardian Defenders box

• x152 plastic components that make 10 Guardian Defenders and one Heavy Weapon Platform. You can also choose to build this kit as close-combat focused Storm Guardians.
• x10 Citadel 28.5mm Round Bases.
• x1 Citadel 40mmm Round base.
• x1 Aeldari Transfer Sheet.

How to paint the Guardian Defenders set

1. Step 1: Basecoat the Armor Red
   Start by applying a basecoat of red paint to the Guardian Defenders’ armor. Choose a vibrant red color like Mephiston Red to cover the armor. Make sure to paint all the areas of the model that you want to be red, including the chest plates, shoulder pads, and leg guards.
2. Step 2: Shade the Red Armor
   To add depth and dimension to the red armor, apply a shade or wash like Carroburg Crimson to the recessed areas. This will create shadows and make the red color appear more rich and realistic.
3. Step 3: Highlight the Red Armor
   Once the shade has dried, use a lighter red color like Evil Sunz Scarlet to highlight the raised areas of the armor. Concentrate on the edges and surfaces that catch the most light. This will make the red armor pop and add visual interest to the models.
4. Step 4: Paint the Swords Metallic
   Next, paint the swords with a metallic color like Leadbelcher to give them a shiny appearance. Ensure to cover the entire blade of the swords with the metallic paint.
5. Step 5: Shade and Highlight the Metallic Swords
   Apply a shade or wash like Nuln Oil over the metallic swords to enhance the shadows and add depth. Once the wash is dry, use a lighter metallic color like Ironbreaker to highlight the edges and raised areas of the swords. This will make the swords look more realistic and metallic.
6. Step 6: Apply Black to the Chainswords
   Use a black paint like Abaddon Black to paint the chainswords. This will give them a dark and menacing look, perfect for close combat weapons.
7. Step 7: Shade and Highlight the Black Chainswords
   Apply a shade or wash like Nuln Oil over the black chainswords to deepen the shadows. Once the wash is dry, use a lighter black or dark grey color to highlight the edges and raised areas of the chainswords. This will add definition and make the chainswords stand out.
8. Step 8: Paint the Helmets White
   For the Guardian Defenders wearing helmets, paint them white using a color like White Scar. The white will contrast nicely with the red armor and give the models a distinct appearance.
9. Step 9: Shade and Highlight the White Helmets
   Apply a shade or wash like Agrax Earthshade over the white helmets to add depth and shadows. Once the shade is dry, use a lighter white color to highlight the edges and raised areas of the helmets. This will make the helmets look more three-dimensional and crisp.
10. Step 10: Add Black to the Masks
    For the Guardian Defenders with masks, use Abaddon Black to cover their faces. This will create a mysterious and stealthy look for these warriors.
11. Step 11: Shade and Highlight the Black Masks
    Apply a shade or wash like Nuln Oil over the black masks to deepen the shadows. Once the wash is dry, use a lighter grey or dark blue color to highlight the edges and raised areas of the masks. This will add definition and make the masks appear more realistic.
12. Step 12: Use Flesh Tones for Unmasked Faces
    For Guardian Defenders without masks, paint their faces with flesh tones like Kislev Flesh for a realistic and lifelike appearance. You can also use other colors for their hair to add variety and character to the models.
13. Step 13: Paint the Serpent Platform Red
    Now, turn your attention to the Serpent’s Scale Platform. Apply a red color like Mephiston Red to cover the entire platform. This will match the Guardian Defenders’ armor and create a cohesive look for the unit.
14. Step 14: Shade and Highlight the Red Serpent Platform
    Apply a shade or wash like Carroburg Crimson over the red platform to add depth and shadows. Once the wash is dry, use a lighter red color like Evil Sunz Scarlet to highlight the edges and raised areas of the platform. This will make the platform look more dynamic and eye-catching.
15. Step15: Varnish
    Once you have completed painting the Guardian Defenders, it’s time to apply a varnish to protect your hard work. Varnish helps prevent chipping, fading, and general wear and tear during gameplay and storage. For the Guardian Defenders, you can use a matte varnish like Stormshield or Munitorum Spray, which provides a non-shiny finish. Apply the varnish evenly over the models, following the manufacturer’s instructions, and allow it to dry completely. This final step will ensure your beautifully painted Guardian Defenders stay looking their best for battles to come. Happy gaming!