The Fat Uncle: A Transport Aircraft of Unparalleled Capacity
The Fat Uncle, a behemoth of a transport aircraft, played a pivotal role in the One Year War and beyond. Developed by the Principality of Zeon, this aerial giant boasted a carrying capacity of 140 tons, making it an indispensable asset for military operations.
Design and Features
The Fat Uncle’s massive cargo bay, which comprised the majority of the aircraft, was capable of accommodating several mobile suits standing upright. The cargo bay doors, located at the front of the aircraft, could be opened during flight to perform airdrops. Two large VTOL rotors provided lift, while two thermonuclear jet engines generated thrust. Despite its enormous size, the rotors could fold against the fuselage to reduce storage space.
Variants and Upgrades
A modified version, known as the Fat Uncle Custom, was used by Zeon Remnants in U.C. 0096. This variant featured two jet engines relocated above the rotors and a sliding door on the left side of the cargo bay. The original three twin machine guns were replaced by two single-barreled machine guns.
Armaments
The Fat Uncle was equipped with three twin machine guns for defense, two mounted on the sides and one on top. Each gun turret could raise or lower and rotate 360 degrees. The Fat Uncle Custom, on the other hand, sported two single-barreled machine guns on top, one on either side of the cockpit.
History and Operations
During the One Year War, the Fat Uncle was instrumental in supplying Zeon ground forces with mobile suits and equipment. It was often seen safely within Zeon lines, as it was vulnerable to attack and the Federation generally had air superiority. However, several Fat Uncles were deployed on the front lines, delivering last-minute supplies and reinforcements or evacuating key personnel and casualties.
Legacy and Impact
The Fat Uncle’s significance extended beyond the One Year War. Zeon remnants continued to use modified Fat Uncles in U.C. 0096, including during an attack on Australia’s Torrington Base. The aircraft’s impressive capacity and versatility made it an enduring symbol of Zeon’s military prowess.
Gallery
[Image: Fat Uncle Cargo Bay]
[Image: Fat Uncle Custom (U.C. 0096)]
[Image: Fat Uncle used by Zeon Remnants in U.C. 0096]
[Image: Damaged Fat Uncle Custom firing machine gun]
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