Sergei Smirnov

Sergei Smirnov (セルゲイ・スミルノフ, Serugei Sumirinofu) was a Human Reform League (HRL) commander in Mobile Suit Gundam 00 known for his military leadership and his role as a father figure to Soma Peries, a Super Soldier pilot. Sergei’s character emphasised the human cost of warfare and the bonds that form between soldiers, making him a respected and memorable figure in the series.

Biography

Mobile Suit Gundam 00

Sergei served as a lieutenant colonel in the HRL military, leading operations against Celestial Being during the organisation’s armed interventions. He commanded HRL forces in numerous battles, demonstrating tactical skill and leadership abilities. Sergei piloted the MSJ-06II-A Tieren and was known for his combat effectiveness despite the technological superiority of Celestial Being’s Gundams.

Sergei’s relationship with Soma Peries, a Super Soldier pilot under his command, was central to his character arc. He served as a father figure to her, providing guidance and support that helped her develop beyond her conditioning as a Super Soldier. Their relationship demonstrated Sergei’s compassion and his ability to see the humanity in those who had been created as weapons.

Mobile Suit Gundam 00 Second Season

In the second season, Sergei joined the A-LAWS organisation, continuing to serve as a commander. He maintained his relationship with Soma, who also joined the A-LAWS, and continued to provide her with support and guidance.

Sergei’s character arc in the second season explored themes of loyalty, duty, and the cost of war. His service with the A-LAWS placed him in conflict with Celestial Being, including encounters with Setsuna F. Seiei and other Gundam Meisters. Despite these conflicts, Sergei maintained his principles and his commitment to protecting those under his command.

Sergei was ultimately killed in action during the second season, sacrificing himself to protect Soma. His death had a profound impact on Soma and demonstrated the personal cost of the conflict, emphasising the series’ themes of loss and sacrifice in warfare.

Personality

Sergei was characterised by his strong sense of duty, tactical acumen, and compassion for his subordinates. He was a respected military leader who cared deeply for those under his command, particularly Soma, whom he treated as a daughter. His personality balanced military professionalism with human warmth, making him a memorable and well-liked character.

Sergei’s leadership style emphasised the importance of protecting one’s subordinates and maintaining one’s principles, even in difficult circumstances. His character served as an example of honourable military service and the bonds that form between soldiers in combat.

Skills & abilities

As a commander, Sergei demonstrated excellent tactical and strategic abilities, effectively leading HRL forces in combat despite technological disadvantages. His experience and leadership skills made him a valuable asset to his organisation, and he was respected by both his subordinates and superiors.

As a pilot, Sergei was highly skilled, capable of holding his own in combat despite piloting less advanced mobile suits. His combat abilities, combined with his tactical knowledge, made him a formidable opponent even when facing technologically superior Gundams.

Relationships

Soma Peries

Sergei’s relationship with Soma was central to his character arc. He served as a father figure to her, providing emotional support and guidance that helped her develop beyond her Super Soldier conditioning. Their bond demonstrated Sergei’s capacity for compassion and his ability to see the humanity in those who had been created as weapons.

Sergei’s death had a profound impact on Soma, reinforcing the strength of their relationship and the loss she experienced. Their bond served as one of the series’ most emotionally resonant character relationships.

Andrei Smirnov

Sergei had a son, Andrei Smirnov, who also served in the military. Their relationship was complicated, with Andrei resenting his father’s attention to Soma and their differing approaches to military service. This relationship added depth to Sergei’s character and explored themes of family and duty.

Mecha

Sergei piloted the MSJ-06II-A Tieren throughout much of the series, demonstrating his effectiveness despite piloting less advanced mobile suits. His skill as a pilot, combined with his tactical abilities, made him effective in combat.

Appearances

• Mobile Suit Gundam 00
• Mobile Suit Gundam 00 Second Season

External links

• Sergei Smirnov on the Gundam Wiki