MSZ-006D Zeta plus D

Model number: MSZ-006D
Code name: Zeta plus D
Unit type: prototype transformable mobile suit
Manufacturer: Anaheim Electronics
Operator(s): Karaba; Earth Federation Forces
First deployment: unknown
Accommodation: pilot only, in panoramic monitor/linear seat cockpit in torso
Dimensions: overall height 22.92 meters; head height 19.86 meters
Weight: empty 35.57 metric tons; max gross 106.17 metric tons
Armor materials: Gundarium alloy
Powerplant: Minovsky type ultracompact fusion reactor, output rated at 2,925 kW
Propulsion: unknown
Equipment and design features: sensors, range unknown
Fixed armaments: 2 x 60mm vulcan gun, mounted in head; 2 x beam cannon, power rating unknown, mounted on thighs
Optional hand armaments: none

Because the MSZ-006A1 Zeta plus A1 was designed for long-range attack missions, its waverider form was intended mainly for long-distance travel rather than aerial combat, and its performance was inferior to that of a conventional fighter aircraft. The MSZ-006D type was a new version intended to improve its thrust-to-weight ratio and handling characteristics. It was equipped with horizontal and vertical fins on its nose and tail stabilator, as well as a backpack that housed powerful nuclear thermal turbofan engines. Its flight sub unit (or “shield”) contained an extra jet engine and vectored nozzles for takeoff and landing purposes. The D type was armed with larger and more powerful thigh beam cannons, and its wing binders had hardpoints for missiles and drop tanks. With the exception of the E type, this was the most expensive machine of the Zeta plus series, and it boasted high performance as both a mobile suit and a fighter aircraft. This D type was later adopted by the regular Earth Federation Forces and deployed in the First Neo Zeon War, and it was said that a modified version was later developed for use in space.

First appearance: Gundam Sentinel
Original mechanical designer: Hajime Katoki

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