RX-78(G)E Gundam EX

The RX-78(G)E Gundam EX was a prototype close combat mobile suit developed by the Earth Federation Forces for forced reconnaissance and rear disturbance operations during the One Year War.

The “RX” in the model code stood for experimental Federation model,¹ the “78” indicated it was part of the Gundam development line, whilst “(G)E” denoted it as a Ground-use Experimental variant. The “EX” designation highlighted its experimental nature and enhanced capabilities compared to standard production models.

History

The Gundam EX was a state-of-the-art ground-use mobile suit developed by the Earth Federation Forces. It was designed to emphasize maneuverability and operating time on the ground for forced reconnaissance and rear disturbance deep into enemy territory. The mobile suit was deployed to the European front during the final stages of the One Year War in November UC 0079.

Unlike the RX-78-2 Gundam, which was designed as a general-purpose mobile suit, the Gundam EX was specifically optimised for ground operations and close-quarters combat. The development team prioritised mobility and stealth capabilities over heavy armor, resulting in a more agile but lighter-armoured machine.

The Gundam EX was assigned to an experienced Federation pilot codenamed “Phoenix” for operations in the Romanian theatre. During the Battle of Cluj-Napoca, the Gundam EX successfully infiltrated the Principality of Zeon military headquarters and engaged multiple enemy mobile suits, including Iria Solari’s MS-06F Zaku II F Type, which it destroyed during the surprise attack.

Design

The Gundam EX was designed with mobility as its primary consideration. Overall height: 18.5 meters made it comparable to other mobile suits in the Gundam line, but its Weight: 41.2 metric tons was significantly lighter than most contemporary designs, achieved by using less armor plating whilst maintaining structural integrity.

Its body armor was made of Luna Titanium Alloy, and despite the unit having less armor on the body surface then those of RX-78-2 Gundam and RX-79(G) Gundam Ground Type, its armor was highly durable and immune to most of Zeon’s projectile-based MS weaponry, including 120mm Zaku Machine Guns, Long Rifles, 180mm Cannons, and 280mm Zaku Bazookas, plus the ability to withstand petrol-induced chemical explosion.

The mobile suit featured a distinctive design that emphasised function over form. The reduced armor plating was compensated by enhanced mobility systems and improved thruster placement. Power generator output: 1,280 kW provided adequate power for extended ground operations, whilst Maximum thrust: 53,000 kg gave the mobile suit excellent acceleration and maneuverability.

The Gundam EX retained the classic Gundam design elements, including the iconic V-fin antenna and the distinctive color scheme, but incorporated design changes specific to its ground combat role. The mobile suit’s frame was reinforced in critical areas whilst maintaining the lighter overall structure.

Armaments

Vulcan guns

The Gundam EX had a total of four autocannons installed on its forehead for use in point-defense against incoming ordnance and infantry, a pair on either side of the forehead. These rapid-fire weapons were effective against light armor and missile systems.

Beam rifle

A long-range beam-based rifle signifying the Gundam EX’s technological advancements, as previously, such a weapon could only be utilized on battleships. It had enough power to destroy a mobile suit or melt a building in a single shot. The beam rifle could be stored on Gundam EX’s rear skirt hardpoint when inactive.

Beam sabers

The Gundam EX’s primary close-combat weapon, which emits high-energy Minovsky particles from an E-cap within the handle. These particles are contained in a blade-shaped I-field. The resulting blade of superheated particles can cut through almost any material that isn’t treated with an anti-beam coating. The beam saber had a limited energy supply, thus, the Gundam EX carried three of them to allow for extended combat. The beam sabers were stored on a movable rack behind the left shoulder when inactive.

Shield

A large piece of defensive armor that could be equipped on the Gundam EX’s left arm to compensate for the unit’s reduced armor for mobility. It had 2 prongs on the end that could be used for close-quarters combat if necessary. It was retractable and could be extended vertically to increase its range of protection. The shield was made with highly durable materials to withstand attacks from Zeon’s projectile-based weaponry.

Gatling gun

A rapid-fire rotary autocannon connected to the right end of the backpack canister, which could be slung over the Gundam EX’s right shoulder. The ammunition belt connected to the shoulder Gatling uses soft parts to follow flexible movements, ensuring reliable feeding during combat maneuvers.

Rocket launcher

A large anti-armor projectile-based weapon equipped for RGM-79 GM, the rocket launcher was used to destroy fortified targets. While not normally part of the Gundam EX’s arsenal due to its focus on reconnaissance, it could still wield the weapon in certain situations. The rocket launcher featured a retractable barrel and could be stored on the Gundam EX’s rear skirt hardpoint when inactive.

Known pilots

• Phoenix

Behind the scenes

The original mechanical designer was Yamane Kimitoshi, who created the design specifically for Mobile Suit Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance. The Gundam EX represents the first entirely computer graphics-animated Gundam design in a full-length series, requiring specific considerations for 3D rendering and animation.

The design philosophy emphasised functionality and battlefield pragmatism over the more heroic proportions of traditional Gundam designs, reflecting the series’ focus on the brutal realities of war. The reduced armor and emphasis on mobility reflected real-world military design principles.

Gunpla

Bandai released the High Grade Requiem for Vengeance (HGRFV) 1/144 RX-78(G)E Gundam EX kit in 2024, featuring enhanced articulation and detailed weapon systems designed to replicate the computer graphics animation appearance. The kit saw early release in Western markets prior to the Japanese release date.

Appearances

• Mobile Suit Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance

External links

• RX-78[G]E Gundam EX on MAHQ
• RX-78(G)E Gundam EX on the Gundam Wiki

Footnotes

1. Federation in Japanese is renpou, hence the use of “R”. ↩