Don Escargot
Anti-submarine attack aircraft produced by the Earth Federation.
The Don Escargot was an anti-submarine attack aircraft produced by the Earth Federation Forces during the Universal Century.
History
The Earth Federation Forces operated various aircraft types for different combat roles before and during the One Year War. The Don Escargot was specifically designed for anti-submarine warfare, operating primarily from naval bases and Himalaya-class aircraft carriers. It played a crucial role in combating the Principality of Zeon’s Jukon-class submarines.
The aircraft remained in service through the One Year War and continued operations until at least UC 0090.
Design
The Don Escargot featured an unconventional twin-wing configuration and a large fuselage designed to accommodate its substantial weapons payload. It carried specialised equipment for detecting underwater targets, including sonar buoys that could be deployed to track submarine movements.
The aircraft required a crew of two pilots who operated from a standard canopy-style cockpit. Its sensor suite provided excellent long-range detection capabilities specifically optimised for locating submerged vessels.
Armaments
The Don Escargot’s primary role was anti-submarine warfare, though it carried defensive armaments for self-protection as well.
Machine guns
Four machine guns were mounted on the aircraft’s fuselage – two facing forward and two facing aft. These provided defensive coverage against enemy aircraft from multiple angles.
Anti-submarine missiles
The aircraft carried multiple anti-submarine missiles designed to engage underwater targets. These guided weapons offered precise strike capability against submerged vessels.
Depth charges
Complementing its missile armament, the Don Escargot was equipped with multiple depth charges. While less precise than guided missiles, these weapons could deliver devastating area damage against submarine targets.
Known pilots
- Max Brauer
- Jimmy Will
Behind the scenes
Okawara Kunio was the original mechanical designer.
Appearances
External links
- Don Escargot on the Gundam Wiki
- Don Escargot on MAHQ