ZGMF-1017 GINN

The ZGMF-1017 GINN was a ZAFT mass-production mobile suit that served as the primary mobile suit for ZAFT forces during the First Alliance-PLANT War in Cosmic Era 71. The GINN was the standard ZAFT mobile suit that formed the backbone of ZAFT’s military forces, providing versatile combat capabilities in both space and ground operations. The mobile suit’s reliable performance and adaptability made it effective throughout the war, serving as the foundation for later ZAFT mobile suit developments.

Model Code Explanation: The “ZGMF” designation indicated a ZAFT Zero-Gravity Maneuver Fighter, whilst “1017” was its model number. “GINN” was the codename, which became synonymous with ZAFT’s standard mobile suit forces.

History

The GINN was developed by ZAFT in preparation for the First Alliance-PLANT War, entering service in CE 71 as the organisation’s primary mobile suit. The mobile suit was designed to provide ZAFT forces with a versatile and reliable combat platform that could operate effectively in various environments, from space colonies to Earth’s surface.

The GINN’s development reflected ZAFT’s need for a capable mass-production mobile suit that could match or exceed Earth Alliance forces. The mobile suit entered widespread service at the beginning of the war, participating in operations such as the attack on Heliopolis colony and numerous battles throughout the conflict.

Throughout the First Alliance-PLANT War, the GINN served as ZAFT’s primary combat unit, forming the core of ZAFT mobile suit squadrons. The mobile suit’s performance proved effective against Earth Alliance mobile suits like the GAT-01 Strike Dagger, though it faced challenges against more advanced units like the Gundam prototypes.

The GINN’s success as a mass-production mobile suit led to the development of improved variants, including the ZGMF-515 CGUE commander’s mobile suit, which featured enhanced capabilities based on the GINN’s proven design.

Design

The GINN featured a distinctive angular design that became characteristic of ZAFT mobile suits. The mobile suit’s frame was designed for durability and versatility, allowing it to operate effectively in both space and terrestrial environments. The GINN’s appearance emphasised functionality, with design elements optimised for combat performance.

The mobile suit’s armour provided reasonable protection against conventional weapons, though it lacked the advanced defensive systems of later ZAFT mobile suits. The GINN’s power plant utilised an ultracompact energy battery, providing sufficient power for extended operations whilst maintaining a reasonable operational range.

The GINN’s design philosophy emphasised versatility and reliability over specialisation, making it suitable for various combat roles. This approach allowed ZAFT to deploy the mobile suit effectively across different theatres of the war, from space operations to ground combat.

Armaments

The GINN’s standard weapons were a 76mm assault rifle for ranged attacks and a heavy assault blade for melee combat.

MMI-M8A3 76mm assault rifle

The GINN’s primary ranged weapon was a 76mm assault rifle, providing effective firepower against most targets. The weapon was reliable and versatile, suitable for various combat scenarios and engagements.

M68 “Cattus” 500mm recoilless rifle

The GINN could be equipped with a 500mm recoilless rifle mounted on its shoulder, providing significant firepower against heavily armoured targets and installations. This weapon demonstrated the mobile suit’s adaptability to different combat situations.

MA-M3 heavy assault blade

The GINN carried a heavy assault blade for close-combat engagements, providing effective melee capabilities. The weapon reflected ZAFT’s emphasis on versatile combat capabilities and close-quarters combat effectiveness.

M66 “Shorty” short-range missile launcher

The GINN could be equipped with a short-range missile launcher, providing additional firepower and area attack capabilities. This weapon enhanced the mobile suit’s effectiveness in various combat scenarios.

Shield

The GINN carried a defensive shield that could protect against both physical and beam attacks, providing essential protection in combat situations.

Known pilots

Numerous ZAFT pilots operated the GINN throughout the First Alliance-PLANT War, as it was the standard ZAFT mobile suit. Notable pilots included various ZAFT officers and soldiers who served in operations across different theatres of the conflict.

Variants

• ZGMF-515 CGUE – Enhanced commander’s variant with improved performance and capabilities

Behind the scenes

The GINN was designed by Kimitoshi Yamane for Mobile Suit Gundam SEED. The mobile suit’s name “GINN” (ジン) uses katakana, and the design established the visual language for ZAFT mobile suits in the Cosmic Era timeline.

Appearances

• Mobile Suit Gundam SEED
• Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny
• Various video games including SD Gundam G Generation series

External links

• ZGMF-1017 GINN on the Gundam Wiki
• ZGMF-1017 GINN on MAHQ