The Norse tribesmen were expert shipbuilders, and frequently crossed the Sea of Claws to make forays along the Empire’s coasts, looting, pillaging, and murdering. The first military ships of the Empire were reputedly built over two thousand years ago in response to Norse raids in the north. Whether you are a soldier or sailor, a craftsman or cook, a weaver or gunner, an engineer or armourer, the Imperial Navy needs you. Indeed, it is one of the only institutions where nobles and commoners not only rub shoulders, but often mix. Not only this, but it provides real opportunities for both the rich and the poor.

It employs countless men and women, and funds entire settlements. But no matter how curtailed it may be, the Imperial Navy is enormous. To the south, the old fleet of the Reikland may be far larger, but it is mostly a river-based force led by captains with little sea-faring experience, for their ships rarely pass Marienburg due to prohibitive treaties and extortionate tolls.

To the north, a new fleet has arisen in Nordland and is well financed, well-trained, and well armed, but it is under constant threat from Norse marauders, pirates, and very dangerous waters. They combine the wild and savage spirit of the Northern warriors with the civilized tactics and black-powder weaponry of the southern realms, creating one of the fastest and most hard-hitting fighting force within the world sea.

2.6 The Reign of Karl Franz (2429 to 2519 IC)Ĭharacterised by its fast moving ramships and its mighty and heavily-armed Greatships, the Imperial Navy of the Empire is one of the most powerful fleets patrolling the waters of the Old World.

2.5 The Succession of Marienburg (2251 to 2429 IC).

2.2 The Dragon and the Wolf (700 to 1111 IC).

2.1 The Birth of the Imperial Fleet (1 to 700 IC).

Total war warhammer naval battle