Its distinctive black and gray color scheme defines this elite unit. Image via P-Bandai.
Bandai Spirits has announced a highly anticipated addition to its Master Grade (MG) model kit line: the MG 1/100 Blaze ZAKU Phantom (Dearka Elthman Custom) from the Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny series. This release is confirmed as an exclusive item for the Premium Bandai direct sales channel, establishing its status as a limited-production collector's piece.
The ZGMF-1001 ZAKU Phantom was an elite variant of the ZAKU Warrior assigned to ZAFT's top commanders and pilots. This new model kit joins a family of SEED Destiny MG ZAKU variants, which already includes the versions of Lunamaria Hawke, Rey Za Burrel, and Yzak Jule. The release of Dearka Elthman's unit, with its distinctive black and gray color scheme, is the final piece collectors have been waiting for to recreate the canonical "Jule Team" lineup in 1/100 scale.
Product Information
- Price:
- P-Bandai JP: 5,390 JPY (tax included)
- P-Bandai USA: $65.00 USD
- Release Date: August 2025 (Japan), October 2025 (USA)
- Scale: 1/100
- Size: Approx. 20.5 cm (about 8.07 inches) tall
- Series: Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny
- Line: Master Grade (MG)
- Product Type: P-Bandai Exclusive
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on the retailer and location.
The Blaze Wizard pack ensures agility and speed for rapid combat maneuvers. Image via P-Bandai.
Key Features
This model kit reuses the acclaimed engineering of the MG ZAKU Warrior mold, first introduced in 2019. Its internal chassis, constructed from ABS and PS plastic without polycaps, ensures a robust and durable structure ideal for dynamic posing. While the internal mechanical detail is simpler compared to other MGs, the design philosophy prioritizes an accessible building experience and an exceptional level of exterior armor detail. Dearka's distinctive color scheme is achieved almost entirely through parts separation, minimizing the need for painting. A key innovation of the mold is the use of insert molding for the power pipes, which come pre-assembled as a single flexible piece, eliminating the tedious process of assembling each ring individually.
The overall articulation is excellent, allowing for a wide range of motion thanks to an advanced system in the shoulders, hips, and legs, even with the bulky Blaze Wizard backpack equipped.
Its MMI-M633 beam assault rifle is ideal for mid-range attacks. Image via P-Bandai.
The MA-M8 Beam Tomahawk allows for devastating close-quarters combat attacks. Image via P-Bandai.
Kit Contents
To deliver this comprehensive experience, the Master Grade kit comes with everything modelers need:
- Parts to assemble the MG 1/100 Blaze ZAKU Phantom (Dearka Elthman Custom)
- "Blaze Wizard" high-mobility backpack equipped with AGM138 "Firebee" missile launchers
- MMI-M633 Beam Assault Rifle
- MA-M8 Beam Tomahawk
- Shoulder shield with storage for spare magazines
- Four hand grenades
- 1/100 scale pilot figure of Dearka Elthman
- Waterslide decal sheet
This kit allows for recreating the dynamic poses of this high-speed assault unit. Image via P-Bandai.
Mobile Suit and Pilot Overview
ZGMF-1001/M Blaze ZAKU Phantom
The ZGMF-1001 ZAKU Phantom is a high-performance version of the ZAKU Warrior, developed by ZAFT for its elite pilots. Its defining feature is compatibility with the "Wizard System," a series of interchangeable backpacks that reconfigure the unit for different combat roles. The EX-M Blaze Wizard pack is designed for high-mobility combat, combining mid-range firepower from its guided missile pods with exceptional agility and speed from its large thrusters. This makes it a versatile weapons platform for swift attacks and evasive maneuvers.
The backpack is equipped with AGM138 "Firebee" guided missile launchers. Image via P-Bandai.
Dearka Elthman
Dearka Elthman is a second-generation Coordinator who begins in Mobile Suit Gundam SEED as an elite ZAFT pilot and member of the Le Creuset team. After being captured by the Archangel, his perspective on the war shifts, leading him to defect and fight to end the conflict. In Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny, Dearka rejoins ZAFT, serving in the Joule team under Yzak Jule's command. During this time, he initially pilots a Gunner ZAKU Warrior before switching to this black Blaze ZAKU Phantom, his primary unit during the latter half of the war. This shift from an artillery role to a high-mobility assault role reflects his tactical evolution, allowing him to coordinate more effectively with Yzak's Slash ZAKU Phantom, which specializes in close-quarters combat.
The mold prioritizes an exceptional level of detail across the entire exterior armor. Image via P-Bandai.
The set includes the full signature arsenal of the Blaze ZAKU Phantom. Image via P-Bandai.
This release finally completes the Jule Team in Master Grade form. What are your thoughts on Dearka's Blaze ZAKU Phantom? Let us know in the comments below!
Where to Buy
Explore these stores for a wide variety of kits and figures. Your purchase directly supports the site.
For P-Bandai USA (Official): As a P-Bandai exclusive, this kit is available directly for pre-order in the US. Secure yours at Premium Bandai USA.
For HobbyLink Japan: Get your favorite model kits and anime figures straight from the source. Shop the latest releases on HobbyLink Japan.
For Amazon Japan: Building your next Gunpla or searching for the latest releases from Japan? Find the widest selection of kits and exclusive figures on Amazon Japan.
For Amazon USA: Looking for fast shipping within the US? Find a great selection of popular Gunpla kits and Gundam figures on Amazon USA.
Accessing P-Bandai Japan may require a VPN, and international buyers may need a proxy shipping service.
Sources
- MG 1/100 BLAZE ZAKU PHANTOM (DEARKA ELTHMAN CUSTOM) | P-Bandai USA (Accessed July 21, 2025)
- MG 1/100 ブレイズザクファントム（ディアッカ・エルスマン専用機） | Bandai Hobby Site (Accessed July 21, 2025)
- ZGMF-1001/M Blaze ZAKU Phantom | Gundam Fandom (Accessed July 21, 2025)
- MG ZGMF-1001/M Blaze ZAKU Phantom (Rey Za Burrel Custom) | Gunplapedia (Accessed July 21, 2025)
- Dearka Elthman - Mobile Suit Gundam SEED DESTINY Character | Gundam Info (Accessed July 21, 2025)
Comments
Post a Comment