Wings of Iron, Skies of Ice: Warhammer+ Unveils Aeronautica Imperialis Animation

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As the smoke clears from the finale of Adepta Sororitas: Penitence, Games Workshop has wasted no time in unveiling the next high-octane project for Warhammer+. During the AdeptiCon 2026 Preview, fans were treated to a first look at Aeronautica Imperialis, an upcoming animated series that takes the eternal conflict of the 41st Millennium into the clouds.

Here is everything we know about the new series following the trailer reveal.

The Premise: Dogfights in the Frozen Sky

While much of Warhammer 40,000’s media focuses on the grinding attrition of ground warfare and the superhuman feats of Space Marines, Aeronautica Imperialis shifts the lens to the pilots of the Imperial Navy.

The series is set above a frozen world, depicting a brutal war of attrition between the “dogged” pilots of the Imperium and the “alien reflexes” of the Aeldari. It’s a classic matchup of brute force versus elegant speed, featuring the iconic Thunderbolt heavy fighters of the Astra Militarum clashing with the lethal Nightwings of Craftworld Saim-Hann.

Meet the Pilots

The article highlights two primary perspectives that will drive the narrative:

  • Kae (Imperial Navy): An expert pilot within the Imperial Navy. However, the preview comes with a grim “40k” warning: attrition rates in the Navy are astronomical, so viewers are cautioned not to get too attached to her.

  • Idranith (Aeldari): A pilot from the Saim-Hann Craftworld. The preview notes the stark contrast between the two factions’ technology—where the Imperial cockpits are rugged, cramped, and “brutalist,” the Aeldari Nightwing interiors are described as “practically luxurious.”

Release Format and Schedule

Fans won’t have to wait long to see these aircraft in action. Aeronautica Imperialis is scheduled to be a three-part animated series, with the first episode set to land in May 2026.

Like previous animations such as The Exodite and Iron Within, the series will be hosted exclusively on Warhammer TV for Warhammer+ subscribers.