The Red Corsairs are a Chaos Space Marine warband of pirates and renegades, led by Huron Blackheart from the Maelstrom. Once the loyal Astral Claws, they now raid Imperial shipping and worlds, making them one of the most feared threats in the Ultima Segmentum.
Who they are
The Red Corsairs started as the Astral Claws, a loyalist chapter founded to guard the Maelstrom. Under Chapter Master Lugft Huron, they rebelled against the Imperium in the Badab War, seeking autonomy. Defeated, they fled into the Maelstrom and turned to Chaos, becoming the Red Corsairs.
Now they’re a vast pirate fleet of mortal and Astartes renegades, dedicated to Chaos Undivided. They threaten Imperial shipping and worlds near the Maelstrom Warp rift.
Why they matter
The Red Corsairs are one of the largest Chaos Space Marine forces, roughly the size of a pre-Heresy Legion. Their piracy disrupts Imperial trade and defense, and their ranks include renegades from many chapters.
They show that Space Marines can fall without daemonic corruption, choosing piracy and rebellion instead. That makes them a unique and persistent threat.
How they fight
They specialize in piracy, infiltration, and boarding actions. They ambush enemy ships and settlements, often transmitting threats and expletives across vox frequencies. Their fleet is their greatest weapon, crewed by mortals and Astartes alike.
- Piracy and raiding: hit and run attacks on shipping.
- Boarding actions: seize ships and cargo.
- Infiltration: use mortals and renegades to sow discord.
Key figures and organization
Huron Blackheart leads, supported by his inner circle, the Masters of the Maelstrom. Notable members include Garreon the Corpsemaster, Katar Garrix, and Garlon Souleater. Mortals like Captain Sargotta and the Tarellian Enforcer also hold high rank.
The warband includes numerous sub-warbands and cultist groups, all under Huron’s loose command. Their home is New Badab in the Maelstrom, though they operate across the galaxy.
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Huron Blackheart | Leader, Master of the Maelstrom |
| Garreon the Corpsemaster | Lord-Apothecary, former Astral Claw |
| Katar Garrix | Headsman, former Executioner |
| Garlon Souleater | Sorcerer, former Mantis Warrior |
| Captain Sargotta | Fleet master, mortal |
Key facts
- The Red Corsairs are a Chaos Space Marine warband formed from the Astral Claws after the Badab War.
- They’re led by Huron Blackheart from New Badab in the Maelstrom.
- They specialize in piracy, infiltration, and boarding actions.
- Their strength rivals a pre-Heresy Legion, with many renegade Astartes and mortal pirates.
- They’re dedicated to Chaos Undivided and threaten Imperial space in the Ultima Segmentum.
FAQ
Who leads the Red Corsairs?
Huron Blackheart, formerly Lugft Huron of the Astral Claws. He’s known as the Tyrant of Badab and Master of the Maelstrom.
What is the Badab War?
A civil war where the Astral Claws and allies seceded from the Imperium. Their defeat led to the creation of the Red Corsairs.
Are the Red Corsairs dedicated to a specific Chaos god?
No, they’re Chaos Undivided. They don’t serve one god exclusively, which is reflected in their varied ranks.