MechaBay
MechaBay
Discord Mastodon Bluesky Twitter/X
Discord About us Support us

Dodai Custom

Sub-flight system used by multiple factions during the Gryps Conflict and beyond.
Jenxi Seow Published 20 Jun 2025 Updated 20 Jun 2025
Dodai Custom

The Dodai Custom was a sub-flight system that served multiple factions during the Gryps Conflict and beyond. Its design was based on the Principality of Zeon’s YS-11 Dodai YS from the One Year War, but adapted for multi-factional use during the turbulent UC 0080s period.

History

The Dodai Custom made its debut during the Gryps Conflict in UC 0087, when the AEUG introduced it as part of their mobile operations strategy. Unlike the original Dodai YS, which was specifically designed for Zeon forces, the Dodai Custom was developed to serve as an all-environment sub-flight system suitable for various operational requirements.

The design proved versatile enough to be adopted by multiple factions during the conflict. The AEUG used it extensively for their mobile suit operations, whilst their Earth-based sister organisation Karaba also integrated the Dodai Custom into their ground and atmospheric operations. Even Neo Zeon forces found the design useful enough to employ it during their campaigns.

During the First Neo Zeon War in UC 0088, the Dodai Custom saw extensive use by Karaba forces. Tragically, Hayato Kobayashi, the former White Base pilot who had become a leader within Karaba, was killed whilst piloting a Dodai Custom in combat during this conflict.

The longevity of the design was demonstrated by its continued service well into the UC 0120s, when the Mars-based Zeon remnants known as the Oldsmobile Army were still operating Dodai Custom units as late as UC 0120.

Design

The Dodai Custom retained the basic concept of the original Dodai YS but incorporated improvements to make it suitable for all-environment operations. The craft featured a streamlined design optimised for atmospheric and space operations, distinguishing it from its predecessor which was primarily intended as a bomber.

Like the original Dodai YS, the Dodai Custom could function in two operational modes. It could operate as an unmanned unit, controlled remotely by the mobile suit riding on it, or it could be piloted directly from within its forward-mounted cockpit. This dual-capability made it particularly valuable for various tactical situations.

The cockpit was located in the forward section of the craft and could accommodate a single pilot. When operating in manned mode, the pilot could control the craft’s flight systems and coordinate with mobile suits using the platform as a sub-flight system.

The design eliminated the missile armament that characterised the original Dodai YS, reflecting its evolution from a bomber-transport hybrid to a dedicated transport and support platform. This change also simplified logistics and reduced manufacturing costs, making it more practical for the various factions operating with limited resources during the Gryps Conflict period.

Operational capabilities

The Dodai Custom excelled in its primary role as a mobile suit sub-flight system, providing enhanced mobility for mobile suits in atmospheric operations. It could carry mobile suits at high speed over long distances, significantly extending their operational range and reducing energy consumption.

The craft’s all-environment capability made it particularly valuable during the complex multi-front conflicts of the UC 0080s, where operations could rapidly shift between Earth, space, and various atmospheric conditions. Its versatility allowed the same platform to support mobile suit operations across different environments without requiring specialised variants.

Known pilots

Behind the scenes

The Dodai Custom was designed as an evolution of the original YS-11 Dodai YS from Mobile Suit Gundam, adapted for the more complex factional dynamics of Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam. The removal of offensive armament reflected the shift from the original concept of a bomber-transport to a pure support craft.

The design’s adoption by multiple factions during the series illustrated the practical realities of warfare, where effective equipment designs often transcend factional boundaries through capture, purchase, or independent development.

Appearances

See also