FD-03-00 Gustav Karl Type-00

The FD-03-00 Gustav Karl Type-00 was a mass-produced general purpose mobile suit used by the Earth Federation. It was an improved version of the earlier FD-03 Gustav Karl Type-13, first deployed in UC 0096.

The “FD” type code indicated that this was a Federation Defence type. The “03” model number signified that this was the third design in the line.The “00” block number denoted that it was a finalised production variant, Type-00.

History

Development of the Gustav Karl series began in the mid-0090s, with the FD-03 Gustav Karl Type-13 seeing its first deployment during the Laplace Incident of UC 0096. The Type-00 variant emerged as a result of lessons learned from this early deployment, featuring a completely overhauled frame structure and various other improvements.

The FD-03-00 Gustav Karl Type-00 saw significant action in April UC 0105, when multiple units were deployed to the Philippine city of Davao to combat the anti-Federation military group known as Mafty. This conflict, part of the broader Mafty Uprising, showcased the Gustav Karl’s capabilities as a frontline mobile suit in urban combat scenarios.

Design

The FD-03-00 Gustav Karl Type-00 cut an imposing figure on the battlefield, with its head height of 22 metres making it one of the larger mass-produced mobile suits of its era. Its design philosophy emphasised versatility and durability, reflecting its role as a general-purpose unit capable of operating effectively in various combat environments.

At the heart of the Gustav Karl Type-00 was a Minovsky type ultracompact fusion reactor, rated at an impressive 3,245 kW output. Its propulsion system comprised rocket thrusters with a total output of 79,500 kg, enabling the Gustav Karl to perform admirably in both atmospheric and space operations.

The Type-00’s cockpit, situated in the torso, featured a panoramic monitor system. This advanced setup provided the pilot with enhanced situational awareness.

A notable design feature was the flexible shield mounted on the backpack over the left shoulder. This positioning provided additional protection without compromising the unit’s mobility, a testament to the Federation engineers’ focus on balancing defence and manoeuvrability.

Armaments

The Gustav Karl Type-00’s standard weapons were 60 mm vulcan guns for ranged attacks, and beam sabers for melee combat. Its arsenal was further augmented by a variety of optional armaments, allowing it to adapt to diverse combat scenarios.

Vulcan guns

Mounted in the Gustav Karl’s head, the twin 60 mm vulcan guns served multiple purposes on the battlefield. The high rate of fire made them effective at intercepting incoming missiles and rockets, and they proved devastatingly effective against lightly armored targets such as infantry or small vehicles.

In combat situations, these guns could lay down a barrage of suppressive fire, allowing the Gustav Karl to manoeuvre or support allied units. While not powerful enough to significantly damage heavily armored mobile suits, the vulcan guns’ versatility made them an indispensable part of the Gustav Karl’s armament.

Beam sabers

The Gustav Karl Type-00 carried two beam sabers, stored in recharge racks in the thighs when not in use. These energy weapons were a staple of close-quarters combat.

The beam sabers used an I-field to contain Minovsky particles within the shape of a blade. Minovsky particles broke down matter at a molecular level. This meant that the beam saber could cut through almost any material.

Minovsky particles were channelled into the saber through an E-cap attached to its hilt. The E-cap recharged with Minvosky particles from the mobile suit’s reactor when the saber was stored in the recharge dock.

Grenade launcher

Mounted on the left forearm, a 2-tube grenade launcher added significant tactical flexibility to the Gustav Karl’s arsenal. The grenades provided an area-of-effect damage capability, useful against clustered enemies or for area denial.

Unlike beam weapons, the grenades could be used for indirect fire over obstacles or terrain features. While standard explosive grenades were common, the launcher could potentially accommodate specialised payloads for different mission requirements.

The grenade launcher’s position on the forearm allowed for quick deployment while leaving the hands free for other weapons or tasks.

Beam rifle

The beam rifle served as the Gustav Karl’s primary ranged weapon, providing considerable reach and firepower. The concentrated energy beam could penetrate most mobile suit armor, potentially disabling or destroying targets with a single well-placed shot. Compared to physical projectile weapons, the beam rifle offered superior accuracy over long distances.

The beam rifle’s output could potentially be adjusted, allowing for non-lethal attacks or power conservation when necessary. When not in use, the rifle could be mounted on a weapon latch on the right side of the back, ensuring it was always readily accessible.

Bazooka

For situations requiring heavy firepower, the Gustav Karl could equip a bazooka. The bazooka excelled at taking down heavily armored targets that might resist beam weapons.

In areas with high Minovsky particle density, where beam weapons might be less effective, the bazooka provided a reliable alternative. Like the beam rifle, the bazooka could be stored on the right back weapon latch when not in active use, allowing the Gustav Karl to switch between heavy firepower and more precise weapons as the situation demanded.

Flexible shield

The flexible shield was mounted on the backpack over the left shoulder. It provided additional protection without compromising the unit’s mobility.

Known pilots

• Eiren

Behind the scenes

The Gustav Karl design originates from the Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway’s Flash novels. It’s worth noting that the Gustav Karl as depicted in the “Hathaway’s Flash” novels differs slightly from its animated counterpart. It is referred to simply as the FD-03 Gustav Karl.

The novel version of the Gustav Karl saw earlier deployment, being used as early as UC 0097 when three units were stolen by the anti-Federation organisation EARM. These stolen units were subsequently destroyed by a Zeta Gundam reproduction piloted by a mercenary known as Lightning.

The novel version also includes a flexible shield as part of its standard equipment, which is not explicitly mentioned for the Type-00 in the animated version.

In the novels, the Gustav Karl saw earlier deployment, being used as early as UC 0097 when three units were stolen by the anti-Federation organisation EARM. These stolen units were subsequently destroyed by a Zeta Gundam reproduction piloted by a mercenary known as Lightning.

Furthermore, the novel version of the Gustav Karl remained in service as late as UC 0112, primarily used as an escort unit or for guarding important military installations. This longevity speaks to the design’s effectiveness and adaptability, allowing it to remain relevant even as the Earth Federation Forces began transitioning to miniaturised mobile suits like the RGM-109 Heavygun.

Appearances

• Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway
• Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway’s Flash

External links

• FD-03-00 Gustav Karl Type-00 on the Gundam Wiki
• FD-03-00 Gustav Karl Type-00 on MAHQ