FA-78-1 Full Armor Gundam

The FA-78-1 Full Armor Gundam is a variant of the RX-78-2 Gundam, developed by the Earth Federation Forces during the One Year War as part of the Full Armor System and Weapon System (FSWS) Plan. Its purpose was to enhance the offensive and defensive capabilities of the RX-78 series, equipping it with additional armor and advanced weaponry. The FA-78-1 features additional armor plating on the chest, shoulders, waist, arms, and legs, as well as auxiliary propulsion systems to maintain mobility despite the added weight. Standing at 18 meters tall and weighing up to 93.1 metric tons when fully equipped, it was designed to deliver significant firepower while still retaining enough mobility for battlefield operations.

Equipped with a back-mounted rocket cannon, twin beam rifle, missile bays on the shoulders and knees, and beam sabers, the FA-78-1 was capable of engaging both mobile suits and larger enemy ships. Its design aimed to give the RX-78-2 the offensive capabilities of a battleship, making it a formidable opponent. However, due to the added weight and potential loss of mobility, the FSWS plan was eventually halted, and the FA-78-1’s design was re-evaluated. Despite this, the Full Armor Gundam remains a powerful example of the Federation’s attempts to push mobile suit technology to new heights during the One Year War. In the world of Gunpla, the FA-78-1 has been faithfully represented in various model kits, including a Master Grade version, offering builders the opportunity to customize and pose this iconic mobile suit.