The 2017 Star Wars The Black Series Death Squad Commander (40th Anniversary) brings the classic Imperial Navy Trooper into the retro‑carded celebration of A New Hope. This release uses the 2016 Black Series sculpt — the definitive early Black Series interpretation of the Death Star operations crew — now presented on a vintage Kenner‑style cardback with ANH photography and silver anniversary branding.
Released as part of Wave 1 of the 40th Anniversary line, this figure includes the DH‑17 blaster, the standard sidearm for Imperial personnel stationed aboard the Death Star. The sculpt features the flared black helmet, grey uniform, and chest armor plate seen during the detention block sequence.
The vintage cardback is the primary appeal: large, display‑friendly, and faithful to the original Kenner aesthetic.
Technical Details & Sculpt
Overall Sculpt & Proportions
The sculpt is clean, militaristic, and screen‑accurate:
- flared black Imperial helmet
- grey naval uniform
- sculpted chest armor plate
- tall black boots
- naturalistic proportions
The silhouette matches the Death Star crew seen in ANH.
Head & Helmet
The helmet features:
- glossy black finish
- wide flare
- sculpted chin strap
- screen‑accurate shape
The design captures the iconic Imperial Navy Trooper look.
Uniform & Gear
The sculpt includes:
- textured grey tunic
- sculpted belt with buckle
- chest armor plate
- tall boots with ribbed detailing
The design reflects the Death Star operations crew aesthetic.
Articulation
The figure includes the standard articulation for the 2016 sculpt:
- ball‑jointed head
- hinged shoulders
- swivel‑hinge elbows
- swivel wrists
- torso rotation
- ball‑jointed hips
- hinged knees
- rocker ankles
Supports firing stances, command poses, and Death Star operations silhouettes.
Paint & Deco
The paintwork emphasizes Imperial uniform precision:
- matte grey uniform
- glossy black helmet
- metallic accents on belt buckle
- clean DH‑17 blaster detailing
The palette matches his ANH appearance.
Accessories & Equipment
The Death Squad Commander includes:
DH‑17 Blaster
- slim sculpt
- metallic barrel detailing
- fits securely in both hands
This is the standard Imperial sidearm for Death Star personnel.
Packaging (40th Anniversary)
As part of the 40th Anniversary line, the figure arrives on a vintage‑style cardback:
- silver 40th Anniversary border
- classic Kenner layout
- ANH character photo
- retro blister bubble
- large display‑friendly footprint
The cardback is the centerpiece of this release.
Collector Notes
- A reissue of the 2016 sculpt on a retro cardback.
- Includes DH‑17 blaster.
- Essential for Death Star, Imperial, and 40th Anniversary displays.
- Pairs naturally with Darth Vader, Stormtroopers, and Imperial Officers.
- A standout figure for uniform accuracy and vintage presentation.
Display & Photography Notes
The Death Squad Commander photographs beautifully under cool, directional lighting that highlights the helmet flare and chest armor. Three‑quarter angles emphasize the uniform silhouette.
For dioramas, he excels in:
- Death Star detention block
- control room scenes
- corridor patrols
- ANH Imperial lineups
His sculpt supports crisp, disciplined poses that capture the cold efficiency of the Imperial Navy — making this figure a must‑have for any Original Trilogy or 40th Anniversary collection.