Gundam Archives

The Turning Point of Odessa

The Battle of Odessa marks a pivotal moment in the One Year War, a conflict that would shape the fate of humanity. This epic struggle, which took place on September 22, 1979, in Japan, and August 23, 2001, in North America, would forever change the course of history.

Preparations for Battle

As the war rages on, Amuro and Sayla prepare the G-Armor and Gundam for deployment. Amuro, still reeling from the loss of Lt. Matilda, is snapped out of his reverie by Sayla, who reminds him of their mission. Their task is to provide reconnaissance on White Base’s course, with Amuro accompanying Sayla to gain more experience operating the G-Armor.

The Enemy’s Plan

Meanwhile, M’Quve’s forces are massing, preparing for battle. Gaia and Ortega pay tribute to their fallen comrade, Mash, but M’Quve is unsympathetic, believing they are wasting time seeking revenge. As the battle begins, Amuro and Sayla discover the enemy’s front line, and Amuro orders Sayla to lower their altitude to avoid detection.

A Traitor in the Ranks

The duo follows a small Federation propeller plane, the Dragonfly, which takes off from Zeon territory. Despite orders to return to White Base, Amuro and Sayla investigate, suspecting a spy in the Federation. Their suspicions are confirmed when they uncover Judock, a traitor who has been selling out to the Zeon.

The Battle Intensifies

As the battle rages on, Amuro and Sayla engage Gaia and Ortega, with the G-Armor separating to release the Gundam, becoming the G-Fighter. The Guntank is hit, forcing it to return to White Base, but the G-Armor and Gundam continue to fight. M’Quve, desperate to turn the tide, threatens to launch a thermo-nuclear missile at the Federation forces if they don’t withdraw.

The Heroic Turn

Amuro, undeterred by the threat, continues to fight, eventually defeating Ortega and Gaia. With the help of the G-Fighter, he reaches the nuclear missile and slices off the detonator, rendering it harmless.

Aftermath

The battle concludes with the White Base crew meeting General Revil. The consequences of the battle are far-reaching, marking a turning point for the Federation in the One Year War. The loss is a significant blow to Zeon, but M’Quve remains optimistic, believing he has secured enough resources to enable Zeon to fight for another 10 years.

Important Events

• Deceased: Gaia, Ortega
• The Battle of Odessa marks a turning point for the Federation in the One Year War.

Staff

• Script: Yoshihisa Araki
• Unit Director: Shinya Sadamitsu
• Animation Director: Kazuo Tomizawa