MSZ-006C1 Zeta Plus C1

The original MSZ-006A1 (MSK-006) Zeta plus A1 is a mass production version of the MSZ-006 Zeta Gundam, redesigned exclusively for atmospheric use, but its success inspires the AEUG to redesign the Zeta plus once again so that it can be used in space. This C1 type is equipped with new cooling systems for use in space, its nuclear thermal jet engines are replaced with hybrid jet/rocket engines that can be used in any environment, and it has a backpack containing four additional thrusters. Although it retains the wing binders of the A1 type rather than the flying armor of the prototype Zeta Gundam, this version of the Zeta plus is capable of performing atmospheric entry with precise calibration. The firepower of the C1 type can be increased by replacing its shield with a powerful beam smartgun. This beam smartgun is integrated into a flight sub unit that contains a small generator and energy CAP system, and it can be equipped with a coaxial disc radome for long-range attacks. In mobile suit form the beam smartgun is carried on the arm of the Zeta plus, and in wave rider form it serves as the machine's nose. Propellant tanks can also be attached to the wing binders, giving the Zeta plus the ability to descend to the lunar surface and then launch back into space. Two of these machines are assigned to Taskforce Alpha during the Pezun Rebellion. On March 1, UC 0088, Zeta plus pilots Tex West and Sigman Shade escort the MSA-0011[Bst] S Gundam Bst in its attack on the power satellite SOL 7804, and they fight alongside the MSA-0011[Ext] Ex-S Gundam throughout the battle for Ayers City. During the final battle with the New Desides on April 4, Tex West is reassigned to operate the G-Bomber and his Zeta plus is transferred to former MSA-007 Nero pilot Chung Yung. Although Chung Yung's machine is destroyed in combat, Sigman Shade successfully enters the atmosphere and his Zeta plus is recovered intact.