Apsaras

Model number: N/A
Code name: Apsaras
Unit type: experimental base attack use mobile armor
Manufacturer: Principality of Zeon
Operator: Principality of Zeon
Rollout: UC 0079
First deployment: UC 0079
Accommodation: pilot and copilot, in tandem-seat standard cockpit in main body
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: unknown
Powerplant: Minovsky type ultracompact fusion reactor, output rated at 1,400 kW
Propulsion: rocket thrusters: output unknown; Minovsky craft system: output unknown
Performance: unknown
Equipment and design features: sensors, range 3,200 meters
Fixed armaments: Minovsky craft system energy pulse

Following the failure of the Principality of Zeon’s “Operation British” to drop a colony to destroy the Earth Federation Forces’ underground Jaburo headquarters in the early days of One Year War, the brass decided to pursue other avenues to destroy the South American base. One of these plans, the “Apsaras Project” developed by Ginias Sahalin, appeared to be the most feasible. It involved constructing an atmosphere/space flight-capable mobile armor driven by a Minovsky craft system which would approach Jaburo from across Earth’s surface, then launch up into high orbit and destroy Jaburo with a large mega particle cannon capable of blasting through the rock protecting the underground base.

The first Apsaras unit was constructed at Zeon’s Southeast Asia mobile suit factory, under the supervision of Ginias. His younger sister, Aina Sahalin, assisted with the project by serving as the Apsaras’ test pilot. Built partly out of MS-06JC Zaku II (J Type) parts, the Apsaras incorporated a powerful generator to run its Minovsky craft system, allowing the mobile armor to float at any altitude and fly at high speeds. However, the generator’s output was not enough to give the Minovsky craft system the required power to keep the Apsaras stable in the air. Although this first Apsaras unit was built only for atmospheric test flights and was not conventionally armed, its Minovsky craft system could emit a powerful energy pulse that could be used as a defensive weapon. The first Apsaras unit was heavily damaged during field tests over enemy territory, and a second unit, the Apsaras II, was constructed. Flight and combat data from these first two units were used, along with most of the parts from the Apsaras II, to build the final version, the Apsaras III.

Pilot: Aina Sahalin
First appearance: Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th M.S. Team
Original mechanical designer: Hajime Katoki

Cockpit