Gundam Archives

The Elite Pilots of Zeon: The Black Tri-Stars

In the midst of the One Year War, a legendary mobile suit team emerged within the Principality of Zeon’s military ranks. Known as the Black Tri-Stars, this elite trio of pilots left an indelible mark on the conflict. Comprising Gaia, Ortega, and Mash, the team was formed in May U.C. 0076 under the guidance of Colonel Kycilia Zabi.

Early Beginnings

Initially, the three pilots were part of the Mobile Training Battalion, an experimental unit tasked with developing mobile suit tactics. They piloted MS-05B Zaku I units, painted in dark sea blue, and were among Zeon’s earliest mobile suit pilots. It wasn’t until later that they would come together as a cohesive team.

The Battle of Loum

During the Battle of Loum, the Black Tri-Stars were ordered to assist Dozle Zabi by Kycilia. In a stunning display of skill, they sank five Federation battleships, including the flagship Ananke, using their signature Jet Stream Attack. This daring maneuver involved the three pilots flying in formation, creating a whirlwind of destruction that left opponents reeling. The team’s achievements earned them an upgrade to the MS-06S Zaku II Commander Type, which they would paint in their distinctive black, purple, and gray color scheme.

Ground Combat and the MS-09 Dom

In October U.C. 0079, the Black Tri-Stars received ground combat training in preparation for Operation Odessa. They were equipped with the latest heavy mobile suit, the MS-09 Dom, courtesy of Colonel M’Quve. This powerful machine would become an integral part of their arsenal.

Fateful Encounters

The Black Tri-Stars faced off against the Gundam on multiple occasions, with varying degrees of success. In one account, they fought the Gundam during Operation Odessa, ultimately meeting their demise. In another, they were defeated and killed by the Gundam and the FF-X7-Bst Core Booster shortly after Mash’s death.

Legacy

Despite their tragic fate, the Black Tri-Stars left an enduring legacy in the world of mobile suit combat. Their innovative tactics, skill, and bravery inspired generations of pilots to come. Their legend has been referenced and homaged in various forms of media, from anime to video games, cementing their place as one of the most iconic and beloved teams in the Gundam universe.

Trivia and Appearances

• The Black Tri-Stars appear as playable characters in several video games, including Mobile Suit Gundam: Zeonic Front and Mobile Suit Gundam: Encounters in Space.
• In Super Robot Wars Advance and its remake, the trio survives until the events of Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ.
• The team’s Jet Stream Attack has been referenced and parodied in various forms of media, including Full Metal Panic! and Yakitate!! Japan.
• The Black Tri-Stars have been immortalized in various forms of artwork, including illustrations by Tony Takezaki and model kits featuring their iconic mobile suits.