G.I. Joe # 19 Cover A First Printing 2026 BN

G.I. Joe #19, titled "The Meeting," was released on February 18, 2026. Published by Skybound Entertainment and Image Comics, this issue marks a pivotal "Joe vs. Transformers" collision where Duke finally confronts the Autobot Hound. 

Plot and Character Developments

• The Confrontation: The issue opens with a tense standoff as Duke discovers that Clutch has been secretly harboring and repairing the Autobot Hound. Given Duke's deep-seated hatred for Transformers—stemming from the death of his friend at the hands of Starscream—he initially demands that Hound be dismantled.
• A New Alliance: Clutch defends Hound, identifying him as a fellow soldier and arguing that "Hound is a G.I. Joe". After a heated exchange, Hound explains the war between Autobots and Decepticons, eventually leading a calmer Duke to demand an audience with Optimus Prime.
• M.A.S.K. Integration: The story continues to weave in M.A.S.K. lore, featuring Matt Trakker (currently one of America's most wanted men) as the only person capable of fixing Hound's transceiver. Trakker is lured out of hiding by a tip regarding Miles Mayhem and is subsequently targeted by Scrap Iron.
• Wider Universe Expansion: Reviewers at Comic Watch noted this as a major "world-building" issue that bridges the gap between different Hasbro franchises within the Energon Universe. 
• Creative Team: Written by Joshua Williamson, with art by Andrea Milana, colors by Lee Loughridge, and lettering by Rus Wooton.