La Grandpa
Giant aircraft carrier used by the Earth Federation Forces during the One Year War.
The La Grandpa was a giant aircraft carrier used by the Earth Federation Forces during the One Year War in UC 0079. It served as the flagship of Admiral Gopp during the Federation’s European offensive operations.
History
The La Grandpa was deployed as part of Admiral Gopp’s fleet during the Earth Federation’s strategic operations in Europe in late UC 0079. The massive carrier served as Gopp’s command vessel during the Federation’s planned assault on Gibraltar and subsequent operations against Zeon positions.
The vessel was actively involved in Admiral Gopp’s confrontation with M’Quve, the Zeon commander responsible for Earth-based mining operations. When M’Quve threatened to destroy major Earth cities including Washington, London, New York, and Paris with nuclear missiles if Gopp did not halt his Gibraltar offensive, Gopp refused to comply with the ultimatum whilst commanding from the La Grandpa.
During the mission to secure the Canary Islands, particularly Alegranza, the La Grandpa coordinated with other Federation vessels to eliminate Zeon remnants that might threaten the fleet’s passage to Gibraltar. This operation indirectly led to the encounter between Amuro Ray and Cucuruz Doan on the remote island.
Design
The La Grandpa was described as a giant aircraft carrier, significantly larger than standard Federation vessels of the period. The massive size was necessary to serve as a fleet flagship whilst carrying substantial numbers of aircraft for extended operations.
The carrier featured extensive armament for self-defence, including numerous machine gun emplacements mounted across its hull. These defensive systems were essential given the carrier’s role as a high-value target and fleet command vessel.
Aircraft complement
The La Grandpa was equipped to carry Fly Manta aircraft, versatile Federation fighters that provided both reconnaissance and combat capabilities. The exact number of aircraft carried is unknown, but as a giant carrier, it likely maintained a substantial air wing for fleet operations.
Launch and recovery systems
The carrier was equipped with at least one launch catapult for deploying its aircraft complement. The catapult system enabled rapid deployment of fighters during combat operations or reconnaissance missions.
Command structure
As Admiral Gopp’s flagship, the La Grandpa served as the command centre for the Federation’s European fleet operations. The vessel’s bridge facilities were equipped to coordinate multi-vessel operations and maintain communications with Federation high command.
During critical negotiations with enemy commanders, the La Grandpa’s communications systems enabled direct contact with Zeon forces, as demonstrated during Gopp’s confrontation with M’Quve regarding the Gibraltar offensive.
Fleet composition
The La Grandpa operated as part of a larger Federation task force that included Himalaya-class aircraft carriers, Mont Blanc-class cruisers, Alberta-class destroyers, and various supply vessels. This diverse fleet composition provided comprehensive combat capabilities and logistical support for extended operations.
Behind the scenes
Yamane Kimitoshi was the original mechanical designer for the La Grandpa. The vessel was created specifically for Mobile Suit Gundam: Cucuruz Doan’s Island as part of Admiral Gopp’s expanded role in the film adaptation.
The name “La Grandpa” appears to be derived from Spanish or Italian, meaning “the grandfather,” possibly reflecting the vessel’s role as a senior command ship or its imposing size compared to other Federation carriers.
Appearances
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Cucuruz Doan’s Island
See also
- Himalaya-class Aircraft Carrier
- Mont Blanc-class Cruiser
- Alberta-class Destroyer
- Admiral Gopp
External links
- La Grandpa on MAHQ
- La Grandpa on the Gundam Wiki