FFB-7Bst Jet Core Booster II
Atmospheric fighter-bomber developed by Hervic for the Earth Federation Forces.
The FFB-7Bst Jet Core Booster II was an atmospheric fighter-bomber developed by [Hervic](/hervic for the Earth Federation Forces. It was designed specifically for atmospheric operations and based on the FF-X7Bst Core Booster, but constructed as a single integrated unit rather than a modular system.
The “FFB” in the model code indicated it was a Federation fighter-bomber, while “7Bst” denoted it was the seventh booster design in the series.
History
The FFB-7Bst Jet Core Booster II was developed by [Hervic](/hervic as an atmospheric specialist variant of their successful FF-X7Bst Core Booster design. Unlike the original Core Booster, which combined an FF-X7 Core Fighter with a separate booster module, the Jet Core Booster II was constructed as a single, purpose-built unit optimised for atmospheric operations.
The fighter was deployed during the One Year War and saw significant action in the later stages of the conflict. According to some sources, only 16 Jet Core Boosters were produced, though this figure is disputed by operational records that show far greater numbers deployed in major operations.
In November UC 0079, multiple Jet Core Booster II fighters participated in a major bombing campaign against a secret Principality of Zeon mountain base in Southeast Asia. This operation demonstrated the aircraft’s effectiveness as both a fighter and bomber, with the formation successfully conducting sustained bombing runs against heavily fortified positions.
The fighter continued to serve with Federation forces beyond the end of the One Year War, though it was gradually phased out in favour of more advanced aircraft designs as mobile suit technology continued to dominate the battlefield.
Design
The FFB-7Bst Jet Core Booster II represented a significant departure from [Hervic’s](/hervic modular approach used in the FF-X7Bst Core Booster. Rather than combining separate fighter and booster components, the Jet Core Booster II was designed as an integrated atmospheric fighter-bomber from the ground up.
The most significant design change was the replacement of the original’s hybrid rocket/jet propulsion system with dedicated thermonuclear jet engines optimised for atmospheric flight. Large air intakes were positioned at the root of the main wing pylons to feed these powerful engines, providing the thrust necessary for both high-speed flight and the ability to carry substantial bomb loads.
The aircraft consisted of the nose section derived from the FF-X7 Core Fighter combined with a newly designed body section based on the FF-X7Bst Core Booster. This hybrid approach retained the proven aerodynamics and control systems of the Core Fighter whilst providing the larger internal volume necessary for bombing missions.
The fighter featured a standard canopy-style cockpit that provided the pilot with excellent visibility for both air-to-air combat and ground attack missions. The elimination of the modular transformation mechanism allowed for a more streamlined design with improved aerodynamic efficiency and structural integrity.
Armaments
The Jet Core Booster II was equipped with a versatile armament package that allowed it to function effectively in both air superiority and ground attack roles.
Vulcan guns
Four vulcan guns were mounted in the nose of the aircraft, providing rapid-fire capability for engaging enemy fighters and ground targets. These weapons were effective against lightly armored targets and served as the primary defensive armament for close-range combat.
The vulcan guns were particularly useful for strafing runs against enemy personnel, vehicles, and installations, complementing the aircraft’s bombing capability with precision firepower for specific targets.
Missile launchers
Two missile launchers were mounted on the main body of the aircraft, providing medium-range engagement capability against both aerial and ground targets. These missiles enhanced the fighter’s versatility by allowing it to engage heavily armored targets that were resistant to vulcan gun fire.
The missiles could be configured for different mission profiles, with anti-air variants for fighter combat and air-to-ground variants for attacking enemy installations and vehicles.
Bombs
The aircraft’s primary ground attack capability came from its substantial bomb bay, which could carry numerous bombs for sustained bombing operations. The bombs were stored internally within the main body, maintaining the aircraft’s aerodynamic profile whilst providing significant destructive capability.
The internal bomb storage allowed the Jet Core Booster II to conduct extended bombing missions against strategic targets, making it particularly effective against fortified positions, supply depots, and enemy bases. The variety of bomb types available enabled the aircraft to adapt to different tactical situations and target types.
Behind the scenes
The FFB-7Bst Jet Core Booster II appeared prominently in Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team, where it was featured in the bombing sequence against the Zeon mountain base. The aircraft was also known by the nickname “Core-EZ” in some sources.
Okawara Kunio was the original mechanical designer for the Core Fighter series, which served as the basis for the Jet Core Booster II’s design.
Appearances
See also
- FF-X7Bst Core Booster
- FF-X7 Core Fighter
- FF-X7Bst-II Core Booster II Intercept Type
- [Hervic](/hervic
External links
- FFB-7Bst Jet Core Booster II on the Gundam Wiki
- FFB-7Bst Jet Core Booster II on MAHQ