Gundam Archives

Luggun: The Reconnaissance Aircraft of Principality of Zeon

The Luggun is a reconnaissance aircraft developed by the Principality of Zeon during the One Year War. It played a crucial role in gathering intelligence and providing strategic support to Zeon’s military operations.

Design and Features

The Luggun boasts a unique design, with a raised cockpit and two radomes connected to the fuselage by long struts. These struts can rotate to position the radomes either above the aircraft for anti-aircraft radar or below it for ground radar. The radar system has high power, enabling long-distance searching even under dispersed Minovsky particles. Additionally, the Luggun is equipped with infrared and sound sensors, providing high information gathering capabilities.

Armaments and Performance

The Luggun is armed with two 20mm twin machine guns mounted on the wings, which can rotate to face front or rear. It also features four missile launchers between the main cockpit and fuselage, as well as a small bomb bay inside the fuselage. The aircraft is capable of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) using slit-shaped vectoring nozzles on the bottom. Its high thrust enables it to transport a suspended Zaku II over short distances.

History and Deployment

The Luggun was developed by Zeon as part of their preparation for the Earth invasion during the One Year War. Although it saw extensive use throughout U.C. 0079, it eventually fell out of favor for newer, smaller, and faster aircraft better suited for atmospheric flight.

Gunpla and Action Figures

The Luggun has been featured in various Gunpla models, including the 1/14 EX Model “Luggun & Sealanth” double pack released in 2003. It has also appeared in action figure sets, such as the Mobile Suit in Action (MSiA/MIA) “Zaku & Magella Attack Tank” action figure set released in 2001.

Notes and Trivia

The Luggun has made appearances in various Mobile Suit Gundam media, including the anime series and manga. Its unique design and capabilities make it a fascinating addition to the Principality of Zeon’s military arsenal.