The Cui: A Troop Transport Tank like No Other
Design and Development
The Principality of Zeon designed the Cui, a troop transport tank, to transport infantry soldiers equipped with personal jets. These soldiers would deploy once close enough to the enemy target, making the Cui a crucial asset in battle. The vehicle’s design features two platforms extending from the center, where the soldiers stand, and three treads for propulsion. The driver operates the vehicle from a cabin in the center.
Armaments and Defense
The Cui is lightly armed, with a single 2-barrel machine gun mounted on the top of the tower that extends from the center of the vehicle. This limited armament makes the Cui vulnerable to enemy attacks, highlighting the importance of its speed and agility.
Variants and Modifications
A variant of the Cui was designed for use in space, removing the treads and mounting a set of thrusters at the rear of the vehicle. This modification allows the Cui to operate effectively in space, expanding its capabilities beyond terrestrial combat.
Combat History
During Ramba Ral’s attack on White Base, he and his troops used Cui transports to get close to the ship, before launching jetpack soldiers to board the assault carrier. The status of these vehicles is unknown after the attack. Later, Bone Abust’s Gaw Carrier was carrying a Cui transport when it came under fire from the 08th Mobile Suit Team while air-dropping.
Specifications
- Overall Height: 7.8 meters (25.591 ft / 307.087 in)
- Overall Length: 6.2 meters
- Overall Width: 23.8 meters (2,380 cm / 78.084 ft / 937.008 in)
- Armaments: 2-Barrel Machine Gun
Real-World Inspiration
The Cui’s design was inspired by the work of Kunio Okawara, a renowned mechanical designer.
Appearances
The Cui has appeared in various forms of media, including television shows and OVAs, such as Mobile Suit Gundam and 08th MS Team.
Gallery
- Ramba Ral’s Cui Transport exiting the Gallop Class
- Ramba Ral’s soldiers riding on the Cui
- Closeup of the Cui’s 2-barreled machine gun turret
- Cui transport in the Gaw’s hangar
- Cui space type
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