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PVN.3/2 Sauropelta

Light utility vehicle used by the Principality of Zeon.
Jenxi Seow Published 23 Jun 2025 Updated 23 Jun 2025
PVN.3/2 Sauropelta

The PVN.3/2 Sauropelta was a light utility vehicle used by the Principality of Zeon during the One Year War. It served as a general-purpose transport and patrol vehicle for Zeon ground forces.

History

Development of the PVN.3/2 Sauropelta began before the founding of the Principality of Zeon, as part of a comprehensive plan for creating specialised vehicles under the PVN designation. The Corps of National Defence of Side 3 required a light vehicle for mass production that prioritised cost-effectiveness and performance.

The result was the PVN.3/2 Sauropelta—a simple but robust design suitable for operating across various terrain types. Despite its excellent build quality, the Sauropelta was primarily used in military parades until the beginning of the One Year War.

The vehicle’s first real combat deployment occurred in March UC 0079, following Zeon’s invasion of Earth. Sauropeltas were deployed across multiple fronts, including operations in Europe before the Battle of Odessa. The vehicle proved reliable in both transport and patrol roles throughout the conflict.

Design

The PVN.3/2 Sauropelta was designed with simplicity and reliability as key priorities. Its compact dimensions allowed it to navigate areas inaccessible to larger vehicles whilst still providing transport capacity for a small team. The vehicle could accommodate one driver and up to three passengers, making it suitable for reconnaissance patrols and small unit operations.

The Sauropelta’s robust construction allowed it to operate effectively across diverse terrain conditions, from urban environments to rough countryside. Its relatively light weight contributed to good fuel efficiency and reduced logistical burden compared to heavier vehicles.

Armaments

The Sauropelta mounted minimal armament appropriate for its utility role.

MG74/S machine gun

A single MG74/S machine gun was mounted on a rack next to the passenger seat. This weapon provided the crew with basic defensive capability against infantry and lightly armored targets. The mounting position allowed for relatively quick deployment whilst maintaining the vehicle’s primary transport function.

Etymology

The vehicle’s name derives from Sauropelta, a herbivorous armored dinosaur from the Lower Cretaceous period belonging to the family Nodosauridae. In ancient Greek, the name means “lizard with a shield,” reflecting the defensive nature of both the dinosaur’s natural armor and the vehicle’s protective role for its crew.

Behind the scenes

The PVN.3/2 Sauropelta was designed by Kimitoshi Yamane for Mobile Suit Gundam MS IGLOO 2: The Gravity Front. The vehicle’s naming follows the series’ convention of using dinosaur names for Zeon vehicles, whilst its practical design reflects the military’s need for cost-effective utility vehicles.

The Sauropelta has appeared in model kit form as part of Bandai’s UC Hard Graph series, specifically in the “Code Name Cyclops” set which includes the vehicle alongside military figures.

Appearances

  • Mobile Suit Gundam MS IGLOO 2: The Gravity Front

See also