Char’s Legendary Red Zaku Gets Updated GUNDAM UNIVERSE Release
BANDAI SPIRITS has unveiled a refreshed version of Char Aznable’s famous Zaku II as the newest addition to the GUNDAM UNIVERSE action figure range, a series created for Gundam collectors around the world.
The release is based on the MS-06S Char’s Zaku II from the original Mobile Suit Gundam anime, one of the most recognizable mobile suits in the franchise’s history.
During the One Year War, the Zaku II served as the main mass-production mobile suit fielded by the Principality of Zeon and became known for its versatility across a wide range of combat environments.
Its combination of strong mobility, adaptable design, and extensive weapon compatibility allowed numerous specialized variants to be deployed throughout the conflict.
Among all versions of the machine, the custom unit piloted by Char Aznable became the most famous due to both its distinctive appearance and the reputation of its pilot.
Painted in Char’s trademark red color scheme, the mobile suit earned legendary status on the battlefield and became closely associated with the ace pilot known as the Red Comet.
Although its performance increase over a standard model was relatively modest, Char’s exceptional abilities created the impression that his machine moved at an astonishing speed compared with ordinary units.
The new GUNDAM UNIVERSE figure incorporates the UNIVERSAL REACTION FRAME, a redesigned internal structure introduced to improve articulation and overall posing capability throughout the line.
This updated engineering allows for a greater range of movement, making it easier to recreate dramatic combat scenes and dynamic action poses.
Compared with the earlier version released in the series, the new figure features substantial revisions to its armor construction, joint placement, and overall presentation.
Several visual elements have also been adjusted to more closely resemble the mobile suit’s animated appearance, including refinements to its color application and external detailing.
The head retains the rotating mono-eye mechanism, preserving one of the Zaku II’s most iconic features.
Included accessories consist of the Zaku Machine Gun, Zaku Bazooka, and Heat Hawk, allowing collectors to display the mobile suit in a variety of combat configurations.
Additional mounting points located on the skirt armor provide storage options for weapons when they are not equipped in the figure’s hands.
Constructed from ABS and PVC materials and standing approximately 15 cm tall, the pre-painted figure is scheduled for release in October 2026 and will carry a suggested retail price of 4,400 yen (approx. $30 USD/ £22 GBP).
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