EXCLUSIVE

Make room for a new villian on the 'Star Wars' block -- Lucasfilm is finally prepping to cash in on the legendary "Death Trooper﻿" character.

Lucasfilm just filed docs in Europe to secure rights to make and sell all "Death Troopers"-related gear -- clothing, footwear, toys, games, birthday party paper hats and favors ... even Christmas tree stands. Nothing says happy holidays like a DEATH Trooper under your tree!

The DTs first appeared in the 'Star Wars Legends' novel, but there's heavy fan speculation they'll debut onscreen in 'Rogue One.' No less an authority than Wookiepedia believes this brief image from the trailer is an actual DT.

The merchandising strategy seems to back up that theory -- plus, Lucasfilm pulled the same move earlier this year with the "Shadow Trooper."