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Russel 11/2 Zebu

Transport truck used by the Principality of Zeon.
Jenxi Seow Published 23 Jun 2025 Updated 23 Jun 2025
Russel 11/2 Zebu

The Russel 11/2 Zebu was a transport truck used by the Principality of Zeon during the One Year War. It served as a general-purpose cargo and personnel transport vehicle for Zeon ground forces.

History

The Russel 11/2 Zebu was deployed across multiple battlefields during the One Year War, providing essential transport capabilities for Zeon forces operating on Earth. The vehicle saw service in various theatres, including operations in Europe before the Battle of Odessa.

During the later stages of the war, Zebu trucks were used by Zeon forces for evacuation operations when bases came under attack. In one documented instance, a Zebu was used to transport wounded personnel during an evacuation from a Zeon base, demonstrating its utility in both routine logistics and emergency situations.

The truck’s robust design allowed it to operate effectively in the challenging conditions of wartime Earth, from European forests to urban environments. Its capacity for carrying both cargo and personnel made it an invaluable asset for maintaining supply lines and troop movements.

Design

The Russel 11/2 Zebu featured a conventional truck configuration optimised for transport duties. The vehicle could accommodate one driver and multiple passengers, though exact capacity figures remain unknown. Its design prioritised utility and reliability over speed or protection.

As a transport vehicle, the Zebu was unarmed, relying on escort vehicles or friendly forces for protection in contested areas. This approach kept the vehicle simple and cost-effective whilst maximising cargo capacity.

The truck’s construction allowed it to handle the varied terrain conditions encountered during Earth-based operations, from paved roads to rough countryside tracks. Its practical design reflected Zeon’s need for reliable logistical support vehicles that could maintain operations under difficult conditions.

Behind the scenes

The Russel 11/2 Zebu was designed by Kimitoshi Yamane for Mobile Suit Gundam MS IGLOO 2: The Gravity Front. The vehicle’s naming follows the series’ animal naming convention, with “Zebu” referring to a subspecies of domestic cattle.

The truck appeared prominently in evacuation sequences, highlighting the often-overlooked logistical aspects of military operations during the One Year War.

Appearances

See also