Detailed view of the Guncannon's design and weaponry.
The RX-77-2 Guncannon is a cornerstone of the Earth Federation Forces' military strategy during the devastating One Year War. Conceived as part of "Operation V," this mid-range support mobile suit was developed alongside the famous RX-78-2 Gundam and the RX-75 Guntank. This trio formed the technological vanguard with which the Federation sought to counter the Principality of Zeon's initial superiority in mobile suit warfare. Its design prioritized firepower and resilience, establishing it as an indispensable mobile artillery platform in numerous key conflicts.
Classified as a limited production, mid-range support unit, the Guncannon was manufactured by the Earth Federation Forces. Its development drew on data from previous models like the RXM-1, RX-75 Guntank, and RX-77-1A Guncannon A. In turn, the Guncannon's design laid the groundwork for future Federation units, including the RGC-80 Prototype GM Cannon and the RX-77D Guncannon Mass Production Type. With an overall height of 17.5 meters (approx. 57.4 feet), its standard armament included two 60mm Vulcan guns, two 240mm cannons, an XBR-M-79a beam rifle, and two hand grenades. The unit featured prominently across various Universal Century media, piloted by figures such as Kai Shiden, Hayato Kobayashi, and Amuro Ray.
Technology and Combat Features
Design and Mobility
The Guncannon was constructed with Luna Titanium alloy armor, a material that provided exceptional durability, proven by its ability to survive a direct hit from an MS-09R Rick Dom's giant bazooka. Despite its maximum weight of 70.0 metric tons, its mobility was comparable to Zeon's MS-06 Zaku II, featuring a maximum acceleration of 0.74 G and a ground speed of 78 km/h (approx. 48.5 mph). Its rocket thrusters generated a total thrust of 51,800 kg (approx. 114,199 lbs), allowing it to perform short-duration jumps under gravity.
Technical drawings showcasing the Guncannon's dimensions.
Sensor and Core Block Systems
The Guncannon's head housed a complex sensor system, considerably more sophisticated than the Gundam's due to its specialization in artillery combat. To optimize accuracy, the shoulder-mounted cannons used data from a circular sensor on the unit's crotch, allowing for partial autonomous target tracking within an effective range of 6,000 meters (approx. 3.73 miles). Like its Operation V counterparts, the Guncannon incorporated the "Core Block System." This design feature housed the cockpit and main power source in a central block that could eject and transform into the FF-X7 Core Fighter, ensuring a higher survival probability for the pilot.
Armament
The RX-77-2 Guncannon's arsenal was tailored for its long-range support role, focusing on suppressive fire and powerful ranged attacks.
Logistics of the Guncannon's powerful artillery.
Its primary armament consisted of two 240mm low-recoil cannons mounted over its shoulders, designed for mid-range fire support. Additionally, it had two head-mounted 60mm Vulcan guns for suppressive fire. For ranged combat, the unit used an XBR-M-79a beam rifle specialized for sniping, offering greater accuracy and range than the Gundam's standard rifle. As a secondary weapon, it carried two hand grenades. Optionally, the 240mm cannons could be replaced with two spray missile launchers for short-range fire barrages.
Optional spray missile launcher for close-range combat.
Operational History
The Guncannon's history is intrinsically linked to the crew of the assault carrier SCV-70 White Base. During the Zeon attack on Side 7 on September 18, U.C. 0079, only one of the three prototype units survived and was loaded onto the White Base, with civilian Kai Shiden becoming its primary pilot. The unit participated in key battles, including Operation Odessa and the defense of Jaburo, where Kai's Guncannon proved its effectiveness by downing an MSM-03 Gogg.
Kai Shiden's Guncannon during the One Year War.
For space operations, the White Base received a second Guncannon. Kai's unit was coded "C-108" and the new one, piloted by Hayato Kobayashi, was "C-109." Both mobile suits were crucial during the assault on the fortress of Solomon and the final battle at A Baoa Qu. Beyond the White Base, the Federation used other Guncannons for pilot training and data collection, with other combat teams deployed across various fronts.
Federation Guncannon units deployed in combat.
Legacy
The Guncannon's historical significance was recognized after the war. By U.C. 0087, a replica of the C-108 unit was displayed at the Kennedy War Museum, managed by Hayato Kobayashi himself. Interestingly, outside its own universe, the Guncannon's design was cited as the model for the Mark-I Jaeger, Coyote Tango, in the 2013 film *Pacific Rim*.
The Guncannon proved to be a reliable and powerful support unit during the One Year War. What are your thoughts on this classic artillery Mobile Suit? Let us know in the comments below!
Where to Buy
Explore these stores for a wide variety of kits and figures. Prices are approximate and may vary by retailer and location. Your purchase directly supports the site.
For HobbyLink Japan: Get your favorite model kits and anime figures straight from the source. Shop the latest releases on HobbyLink Japan.
For P-Bandai USA: For exclusive and limited-run kits, check out the official P-Bandai USA store.
For Amazon Japan: Building your next Gunpla or searching for the latest releases from Japan? Find the widest selection on Amazon Japan.
For Amazon USA: Looking for fast shipping within the US? Find a great selection of popular Gunpla kits on Amazon USA.
Please note that accessing P-Bandai Japan may require a VPN, and a proxy shipping service is needed for international buyers.
Sources
- Gundam Wiki. "RX-77-2 Guncannon." (Accessed August 21, 2025)
- MAHQ.net. "RX-77-2 Guncannon." (Accessed August 21, 2025)
- Gundam Wiki. "Operation V." (Accessed August 21, 2025)
Comments
Post a Comment