Leman Russ Exterminator

The Exterminator assault tank is a common variant of the standard Leman Russ tank, replacing the battle cannon with twin-linked autocannons. Generally equipped with mutiple heavy bolters mounted in sponsons and the hull for extra firepower, the Exterminator can lay down a withering hail of shells. It surrenders its anti-tank effectiveness for increased anti-infantry firepower, and comes into its own when deployed to face a lightly equipped enemy such as Ork mobs or Tyranid swarms.

As well as bristling with rapid firing weapons, the Exterminator is also slightly faster than a Leman Russ, the reduced size of its main weapons allowing for a higher top speed. A tank company commander will often look to include at least one Exterminator in his unit and utilise it in a reconnaisance role, as the lead tank of the company seeking out the enemy for the following tanks. Exterminators are often attached to the regimental reconnaissance company to add heavy firepower without overly affecting the company's all important speed and mobility. It is thought that the heavier firepower and armour of an Exterminator will give the reconnaissance unit a vital edge in their initial engagement with forward or screening enemy units.

The versatility of the Exterminator has seen it fulfil many roles within an armoured regiment. Its rapid firing weapons can be used as a stopgap measure for anti-aircraft defense. Whilst lacking the elevation and targeters to fulfil this role effectively, when needed tank commander have used Exterminators to throw up a wall of fire against enemy air attack with some success. Most commanders would still look to Hydras to provide true cover, but they are not always available and other means must be utilised.