The 8th Cadian is comprised of approximately 8,000 Guardsmen divided into roughly 24 companies. At least two companies at a time are in hostile environment training on Prosan (the innermost planet of the Cadian System) and two others help to garrison Kasr Sonnen and Kasr Holn (Fortress Worlds within the Cadian System). Due to their illustrious history and elite status, the companies of the Cadian 8th are in high demand to play support roles for other units or to serve in smaller formations as elite strike forces. As a result, the 8th Cadian rarely fights as an entire unit, instead having its companies deployed as support elements for other, less able Imperial Guard or Planetary Defence Forces. In addition, there is always demand for soldiers of the 8th to be indentured to Inquisitors, particularly members of the Cadian Internal Guard, or to assist in training newly-founded regiments.
The 8th Cadian is equipped with a number of Leman Russ main battle tanks which were deployed to maximum effect during the 13th Black Crusade in 999.M41. The Cadian 8th's officers are also some of the most skilled leaders in the Imperial Guard and are often used to lead the training cadres that will churn out new Cadian Shock Trooper regiments that can meet the high standards required by the Cadian military tradition.