The EX-Gear is a multi-purpose reinforced powered suit first seen in the Macross Frontier television series. It was introduced on the YF-24 Evolution, designed to enhance the variable fighter's cockpit interface and improve pilot survivability.
Development[]
Within the Macross Frontier fleet, the research and development of "mechanically-reinforced soldiers" (via cyborg body implants similar to the forces seen on the Macross Galaxy fleet) is prohibited and thus both military and civilian EX-Gear units can be seen in operation as non-invasive mechanical augmentation typically observed in pilot training.
Technology & Characteristics[]
The EX-Gear includes an exoskeleton unit, personal inner-wear, two variable geometry wings, two hybrid jet/rocket engines, mechanical hardware for the head, torso, arms and legs. The EX-Gear is a standard feature of the VF-25 Messiah and has been adopted by the New United Nations Spacy military as equipment for the VF-171 Nightmare Plus. Older variable fighters can be retrofitted to include an EX-Gear system, such as the VF-22 Sturmvogel II used by the New United Nations Spacy during the war for independence on Windermere IV.
The civilian EX-Gear (utility-type PS/ML-21) is a versatile version for private-use and is compatible with the military standard. There are several other types of private enterprise/civilian EX-Gear models including those for ground sports (cheap and lightweight for mobility) as well specialized flight models. Civilian EX-Gears in particular are used during concert events, as seen in the film Macross Frontier Movie: The False Songstress.
Variants[]
- PS/ML-21 Civilian EX-Gear
- EGP-03/05 Military EX-Gear
Gallery[]
Notes & Trivia[]
- Military EX-Gear are very heavy when deactivated. Running laps while wearing an inactive one is often used as an initiation rite or punishment, especially in S.M.S..
- In Macross Triangle Frontier, EX-Gear is used for practical exams in Academy Mode to familiarize players with Variable Fighter Controls. During target practice exams, they are outfitted with paint balls for throwing.
External Links[]