RB-79M Ball Type M

Model number: RB-79M
Code name: Ball Type M
Unit type: combat support pod
Manufacturer: Earth Federation Forces
Operator: Earth Federation Forces
Rollout: UC 0079
First deployment: October UC 0079
Accommodation: pilot only, in standard cockpit in body
Dimensions: overall height 14.1 meters
Weight: empty 32.6 metric tons; max gross weight unknown
Armor materials: unknown
Powerplant: Minovsky type ultracompact fusion reactor, power output rating unknown
Propulsion: rocket thrusters: total output unknown
Performance: unknown
Equipment and design features: sensors, range unknown
Fixed armaments: 48 x MMB-05E floating mine, stored in minelayer pods

A variant of the Earth Federation Forces’ standard RB-79 Ball, the RB-79M Ball Type M (aka Minelayer Pod Type) was nicknamed “Locker Ball” for the large minelayer pods that it mounted. The Type M was deployed to a fleet’s defense perimeter to plant its mines. The 180mm cannon mounted on top of the RB-79 was replaced with a mine control unit. The Type Ms were conversions of existing RB-79 and RB-79F units, and they were deployed starting in October UC 0079.

Pilot: Broglie Ligera
First appearance: MSV-R
Original mechanical designer: Kunio Okawara

Rear view