FF-X7Bst-II Core Booster II Intercept Type – MechaBay

The FF-X7Bst-II Core Booster II Intercept Type was a high-altitude interceptor fighter developed by [Hervic](/hervic for the Earth Federation Forces. It was a specialised variant of the FF-X7Bst Core Booster designed specifically for intercepting enemies entering the atmosphere from orbit.

The “FF-X7Bst-II” model designation indicated it was the second interceptor variant of the Core Booster series, whilst “Intercept Type” specified its role as a high-altitude interceptor.

History

The FF-X7Bst-II Core Booster II Intercept Type was developed by [Hervic](/hervic during the One Year War as a response to the need for effective high-altitude interception capabilities. The Earth Federation Forces required aircraft capable of engaging enemies that entered the atmosphere from orbital trajectories, particularly Principality of Zeon forces conducting atmospheric entry operations.

The Intercept Type saw limited deployment during UC 0079, with few units produced due to its specialised role and the rapid pace of technological development during the war. The fighter’s brief operational window meant that it had minimal impact on the overall conflict, though it demonstrated the Federation’s efforts to develop specialised aircraft for specific tactical requirements.

The aircraft’s most notable characteristic was its rarity—even among Gundam enthusiasts, the Core Booster II Intercept Type remained largely unknown, with its only documented appearance lasting less than thirty seconds in recorded combat footage.

Design

The FF-X7Bst-II Core Booster II Intercept Type was designed specifically for high-speed, high-altitude interception missions. [Hervic](/hervic based the design on their proven FF-X7Bst Core Booster platform but incorporated significant modifications to optimise it for atmospheric interception operations.

The most distinctive feature of the Intercept Type was its enhanced propulsion system. Large rocket boosters could be mounted externally to provide the additional thrust necessary for rapid atmospheric ascent and high-speed interception manoeuvres. These boosters were essential for achieving the performance required to intercept fast-moving targets entering the atmosphere from space.

Additional propellant tanks were integrated into the design to support extended high-altitude operations. The increased fuel capacity allowed the fighter to maintain combat-effective speeds at extreme altitudes where conventional aircraft would be unable to operate effectively. This capability was crucial for intercepting orbital entry vehicles before they could reach lower altitudes where they might disperse or become more difficult to engage.

The fighter retained the standard canopy-style cockpit configuration, though it was optimised for the demanding requirements of high-altitude flight. The pilot had to contend with the extreme conditions associated with near-space operations, including reduced atmospheric pressure and temperature extremes.

Multiple fuel tanks were positioned throughout the aircraft to ensure adequate range for intercept missions that might require extended loitering at high altitude or pursuit of targets across vast distances. The additional fuel storage was balanced against the need to maintain adequate manoeuvrability for combat operations.

Armaments

The Core Booster II Intercept Type carried a streamlined armament package optimised for its specific interception role.

Gatling gun

The primary armament consisted of a single gatling gun mounted on the right side of the booster module. This rapid-fire weapon provided concentrated firepower suitable for engaging fast-moving targets during high-speed interception engagements. The gatling gun’s high rate of fire was particularly valuable when engaging targets with limited engagement windows.

The weapon’s placement on the booster module rather than the nose section allowed for optimal weight distribution whilst maintaining the aircraft’s centre of gravity within acceptable limits despite the additional fuel and booster equipment.

Missiles

While official documentation remained limited, the aircraft was believed to be capable of carrying missiles as secondary armament. These weapons would provide longer-range engagement capability and enhanced firepower against heavily armoured targets that might resist gatling gun fire.

The missile armament would be particularly valuable for engaging larger targets such as transport aircraft or early mobile suits that might be conducting atmospheric entry operations. The ability to engage at extended range would allow the Intercept Type to attack targets before they could deploy defensive measures or countermeasures.

Behind the scenes

The FF-X7Bst-II Core Booster II Intercept Type appeared briefly in the first episode of Mobile Suit Gundam MS IGLOO: Apocalypse 0079, where it was shown for less than thirty seconds. This extremely limited screen time contributed to its obscurity within the Gundam franchise.

Okawara Kunio was the original mechanical designer for the Core Fighter series that served as the foundation for this interceptor variant.

Appearances

Mobile Suit Gundam MS IGLOO: Apocalypse 0079

External links

FF-X7Bst-II Core Booster II Intercept Type on the Gundam Wiki
FF-X7Bst-II Core Booster II Intercept Type on MAHQ