Transformers issue #36 will introduce a massive change to the Autobot ranks. On September 9, 2026, the legendary Autobot combiner Superion will incorporate a former Decepticon for the first time in the franchise's history.
Breaking the 1985 Aerialbot configuration
The original Superion team was established in 1985 as a quintet of Aerialbots, consisting of Silverbolt, Air Raid, Fireflight, Skydive,and Slingshot. For four decades, this specific combination of five Autobots has defined the most classic version of the combiner in the Transformers saga. This long-standing tradition is now being upended by a narrative shift that integrates a former enemy into the squad.
This move follows a broader trend within the Transformers mythos where fierce Decepticons eventually align with the Autobots, permanently altering the landscape of the war. According to the report, Thundercracker—a famous Decepticon pilot—is the first character of his kind to officially join an Autobot combiner, marking a significant departure from the original 1985 lineup.
Thundercracker replaces Slingshot in the left arm
Thundercracker is set to occupy the left arm slot of the Superion combiner, a position traditionally held by the Aerialbot Slingshot. the visual design for this new configuration features Thundercracker's unmistakable blue-and-red, F-15 inspired body and sharp wings. As the Wildstorm studio announced, the cover art by David Nakayama will reveal this newborn configuration eleven days before the official release date.
The cover depicts Silverbolt maintaining his role as the central torso while Thundercracker takes his place in the assembly.. This placement suggests a functional replacement of Slingshot, signaling a major evolution for the character of Thundercracker, who has spent years attempting to break away from the brutal Decepticon war machine.
Kirkman and Howard conclude the Energon Universe arc
The upcoming 32-page comic issue will serve as the conclusion to the current narrative arc within the Energon Universe. Written by Robert Kirkman and illustrated by Jason Howard, the issue features colors provided by Mike Spicer. The publication is priced at $3.99 and is expected to be a landmark moment for the franchise's modern storytelling.
This creative team is leveraging the conclusion of the hero's journey to blend old myths with a new generation of storytelling. By mixing established legacy characters with new factional dynamics, the issue aims to bridge the gap between the original 1980s lore and the evolving modern comic landscape.
Will Thundercracker’s Decepticon history cause friction?
Several questions remain regarding how Thundercracker’s personality and history will interplay with the established Aerialbot lineage. While the mechanical change is confirmed, it is still unverified whether he will be treated as a top-tier ally or if he will maintain a "comic villain" persona during emergency field operations. Additionally, the source does not clarify how this shift will impact future crossover events, which are a staple of the Transformers system.
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