Delta Plus

Overview

The MSN-001A1 Delta Plus is a prototype transformable mobile suit featured in the anime series Mobile Suit Gundam UC. Developed by Anaheim Electronics for the Earth Federation Forces, it represents the fully realized transformable evolution of the earlier Hyaku Shiki. By incorporating variable frame technology derived from the Zeta Project, it achieves exceptional performance across all operational environments. Assigned to the Londo Bell assault carrier Nahel Argama, the machine serves as a key combat unit piloted by Earth Federation officer Riddhe Marcenas.

Appearance

The unit features a grey-based color scheme, deliberately omitting the iconic gold coating seen on the Hyaku Shiki. It possesses a variable frame that converts between a humanoid mobile suit form and a streamlined Wave Rider cruise mode capable of atmospheric entry. Its head incorporates side-mounted cannons, while the back is equipped with flexible wing-like binders for aerodynamic control. The shield, which functions as the nosecone during transformation, contains a distinct open opening for its internal grenade launcher. Notably, the arm manipulators remain exposed even while transformed in Wave Rider mode.

Abilities

Featuring a lightweight frame and flexible binders, this unit demonstrates exceptional mobility and flight performance across all environments. In its Wave Rider cruise mode, it can execute unassisted atmospheric entry, fly under 1G gravity, and carry other mobile suits as a sub-flight system. Built-in armaments include twin 60mm head vulcan cannons and a multipurpose shield containing beam sabers, a beam gun, and a double-barreled grenade launcher. For handheld weapons, it can wield its original Long Mega Buster or a standard ReZEL beam rifle. Although capable of firing the overpowered Beam Magnum, the extreme strain causes its right arm joint and electronics to short-circuit immediately.

Background

Rolled out in U.C. 0090 as a mass-production prototype, the Delta Plus spent six years in storage due to its low parts compatibility with standard Earth Federation mass-production machines and the structural complexity of its variable frame. In U.C. 0096, following heavy material losses incurred fighting the Sleeves at Industrial 7, the high-spec machine was assigned to the Londo Bell assault carrier Nahel Argama. Piloted by Ensign Riddhe Marcenas, the unit played a vital role in transporting Mineva Lao Zabi safely to Earth in its Wave Rider mode and subsequently participated in key atmospheric engagements, including the battle against the massive mobile armor Shamblo.

Relationships

The machine is primarily associated with Federation pilot Riddhe Marcenas, who utilized its Wave Rider capabilities to escort Mineva Lao Zabi safely down to Earth. It fought alongside the RX-0 Unicorn Gundam piloted by Banagher Links, famously borrowing its high-output Beam Magnum during combat. In U.C. 0094, test pilot Pico Altidore operated the machine in a mock battle against the prototype Gundam Delta Kai before jointly engaging space pirates. Later, during garage operations, it suffered catastrophic damage from the Armed Armor VN of the Unicorn Gundam 2 Banshee, piloted by Ple Twelve.

Trivia

The designation code "A1" in its model number MSN-001A1 is believed to reference the Zeta Plus A1, signaling its design philosophy of optimizing a high-performance machine for atmospheric and orbital operations. The unit served as the basis for several variants, including the Gundam Delta Kai equipped with the n_i_t_r_o system, as well as the customized Delta Zain featured in the VR anime Mobile Suit Gundam: Silver Phantom. In 2021, the machine unexpectedly gained renewed public attention when a real-world mutation of the COVID-19 virus was designated as the "Delta Plus" variant.