Scratch-built BFG Tyranid Hive Ship

As part of a project designed to kick-start a BFG campaign that extends into 40k, I decided to scratchbuild a BFG fleet with parts left over from my Tyranids.

First up is a Hive Ship, which is the basis for the entire fleet. It can become a veritable pillbox with 14 hits, and up to 6 spores that act as shields as well as turrets. It also acts much like synaptic control creature in 40k, keeping the lesser vessels' baser instincts in check.

It is the only Attack-Craft capable Tyranid vessel, but due to its customization options it can be more than sufficient at that role. It can take up to 3 Launch bays on each side of the vessel and one in the thorax, allowing for up to 7 squadrons of fighters or assault boats to be launched in a single turn.

It's ability to customize also allows it to be a true-to-purpose Battleship, with multiple pyro-acid batteries or bio-plasma spines. The weapons are short range, but with the extra spores and hits, this beast should have no trouble making it into range.

"What about the cost?" you surely must be thinking... but it is cheaper than common sense would dictate. A "Plasma-boat" hive ship, with effectively strength 14 broadside lance shots (although 15cm range) with extra carapace (+4 hits) and spores (making 6 total) and an upgrade to turn 5cm sooner, costs less than a space marine battlebarge. Don't let this kind of ship get within 15cm, or kiss your ships goodbye.

Next time, we'll go over the next capital ship in the Tyranid Armada: the Tyranid Cruiser.