Bandai Reveals Extensive May 2026 Gunpla Release Schedule

Bandai has officially revealed the Gunpla release schedule for May 2026, which is set to feature a range of 1/144 scale kits across a variety of grades.
Leading the general retail lineup is the newly sculpted HG 1/144 Messer Type-M01 (Gawman Custom) from Hathaway’s Flash.

This model utilizes stress-free front and rear skirts that secure a wide range of motion without falling off during dynamic posing.

Builders looking to expand their collections via the Premium Bandai web store have a trio of exclusive High Grade models to look forward to.

The HG 1/144 Gundam Barbatos Adapt originates from the Iron-Blooded Orphans 10th anniversary short film, recreating the heavily repaired form of the mecha following the battle of Edmonton.

It features an updated internal Gundam Frame with improved articulation in the neck, shoulders, and hips, alongside new KPS parts replacing standard polycaps for enhanced stability.

Joining the Barbatos on the web store is the HG 1/144 D Gundam Second from the Double Fake Under the Gundam comic series.

This model fully replicates the combat-modified unit with new thrusters that feature a pop-out vernier gimmick.

These web exclusives are rounded out by the HG 1/144 Gelgoog (GQ) from Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX, which utilizes distinctive colors and highly posable joints.

Fans visiting official physical store locations also have several limited edition items on the way.
Builders who missed out on a highly sought-after crossover will see the RG 1/144 RX-78-2 Gundam Ver.2.0 [Hatsune Miku Ver.] get a special re-release at the Gundam Base Annex.

This kit utilizes molded colors to recreate the virtual singer’s signature blue-green, silver, and black palette alongside original realistic decals.
![RG 1144 RX 78 2 Gundam Ver.2.0 [Hatsune Miku Ver.] gunpla 5](https://cdn.essential-japan.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/RG-1144-RX-78-2-Gundam-Ver.2.0-Hatsune-Miku-Ver.-gunpla-5.webp)
To complete the lineup of location-exclusive releases, GUNDAM SIDE-F is launching the striking RG 1/144 MSN-04FF Sazabi [Clear Color].
![RG 1144 MSN 04FF Sazabi [Clear Color] gunpla 0](https://cdn.essential-japan.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/RG-1144-MSN-04FF-Sazabi-Clear-Color-gunpla-0.webp)
This unique variation features deep clear red outer armor that allows the intricate internal frame to be seen, contrasted by luxurious metallic molded parts used for the joints and abdomen.
![RG 1144 MSN 04FF Sazabi [Clear Color] gunpla 4](https://cdn.essential-japan.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/RG-1144-MSN-04FF-Sazabi-Clear-Color-gunpla-4.webp)
Official Gundam Base stores will also be offering an exclusive Gunpla-kun painting model and a revival version of a classic kit.

Let’s take a look at the full details for the new May releases!
- HG 1/144 Messer Type-M01 (Gawman Custom)
- Price: 3,740 yen (approx. $24 USD / £19 GBP).

Includes a long beam rifle, two beam sabers, a small shield, and a specific left shoulder part for Gawman’s unit.

This kit will be available at general retail stores on Saturday, May 30, 2026.
- RG 1/144 RX-78-2 Gundam Ver.2.0 [Hatsune Miku Ver.]
- Price: 4,290 yen (approx. $28 USD / £22 GBP).
![RG 1144 RX 78 2 Gundam Ver.2.0 [Hatsune Miku Ver.] gunpla 2](https://cdn.essential-japan.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/RG-1144-RX-78-2-Gundam-Ver.2.0-Hatsune-Miku-Ver.-gunpla-2.webp)
Features original realistic decals, a special color beam saber effect, and a core fighter landing gear set.
![RG 1144 RX 78 2 Gundam Ver.2.0 [Hatsune Miku Ver.] gunpla 3](https://cdn.essential-japan.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/RG-1144-RX-78-2-Gundam-Ver.2.0-Hatsune-Miku-Ver.-gunpla-3.webp)
This kit will be available exclusively at the Gundam Base Annex New Chitose Airport in May 2026.
![RG 1144 RX 78 2 Gundam Ver.2.0 [Hatsune Miku Ver.] gunpla 8](https://cdn.essential-japan.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/RG-1144-RX-78-2-Gundam-Ver.2.0-Hatsune-Miku-Ver.-gunpla-8.webp)
- HG 1/144 Gundam Barbatos Adapt
- Price: 2,420 yen (approx. $16 USD / £12 GBP).

The kit includes two Teiwaz swords of different sizes and features moveable waist thrusters.

This kit is scheduled to release via Premium Bandai in May 2026.

- HG 1/144 Gelgoog (GQ)
- Price: 2,420 yen (approx. $16 USD / £12 GBP).

Features a unique wire ejection gimmick using a dedicated hand part and lead wire.

Includes two beam spray guns and a beam saber.

This kit is scheduled to release via Premium Bandai in May 2026.

- HG 1/144 D Gundam Second
- Price: 3,080 yen (approx. $20 USD / £16 GBP).

Accessories include a connected beam rifle, a bazooka, a drill gun, a wired bomb, a birdlime gun, two beam sabers, a shield, a magnet anchor, and a rivet gun.

This kit is scheduled to release via Premium Bandai in May 2026.

- RG 1/144 MSN-04FF Sazabi [Clear Color]
- Price: 8,910 yen (approx. $57 USD / £45 GBP).
![RG 1144 MSN 04FF Sazabi [Clear Color] gunpla 1](https://cdn.essential-japan.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/RG-1144-MSN-04FF-Sazabi-Clear-Color-gunpla-1.webp)
Features Double Horn Funnel saber effect parts and an Action Base 5 for dynamic displays.
![RG 1144 MSN 04FF Sazabi [Clear Color] gunpla 2](https://cdn.essential-japan.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/RG-1144-MSN-04FF-Sazabi-Clear-Color-gunpla-2.webp)
Includes additional saber effect parts for the long-range fin funnel of the separately sold RG 1/144 RX-93ff ν Gundam.
![RG 1144 MSN 04FF Sazabi [Clear Color] gunpla 3](https://cdn.essential-japan.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/RG-1144-MSN-04FF-Sazabi-Clear-Color-gunpla-3.webp)
This kit will be available exclusively at GUNDAM SIDE-F on Saturday, May 2, 2026.
![RG 1144 MSN 04FF Sazabi [Clear Color] gunpla 5](https://cdn.essential-japan.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/RG-1144-MSN-04FF-Sazabi-Clear-Color-gunpla-5.webp)
- Gundam Base Limited Best Mecha Collection 1/144 RX-78-2 Gundam (REVIVAL Ver.) [Gundam Base Color]
- Price: 1,430 yen (approx. $9 USD / £7 GBP).

A remake of the first-ever Gunpla kit featuring a refreshing blue color scheme, a seam-free front design, and special marking stickers.

This kit will be available exclusively at Gundam Base stores on Saturday, May 2, 2026.

- 1/1 Gundam Base Limited Gunpla-kun DX Set (with Runner Ver. parts) [Painting Model]
- Price: 1,320 yen (approx. $8 USD / £6 GBP).

Molded in a simple white base color specifically designed for custom painting.

This kit will be available exclusively at Gundam Base locations on Saturday, May 2, 2026.

With such a diverse range of mobile suits spanning multiple timelines and exclusive collaborations, builders have plenty of exciting options to look forward to this May.
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