Technology & Combat Characteristics
After the First Alliance-PLANT War, most of the Orb Union's MBF-M1 M1 Astrays obtained atmospheric flight capabilities through the use of the backpack-mounted EF-24R Shrike, and this form is known as the MBF-M1+EF-24R M1 Astray Shrike. The Shrike is a flight unit developed specifically for the M1 Astray, and consisted of thrusters and large rotors. Thanks to these large rotors, the M1 Astray Shrike is capable of rapid vertical take-off and turning. The M1 Astray Shrike can be deployed from the decks of naval vessels and engage in aerial combat over the open water, allowing it to defend Orb Union at sea as well as on land. The M1 Astray Shrike has the same standard armament as the M1 Astray, consisting of a pair of CIWS, two beam sabers, a beam rifle and a shield.
History
In C.E. 73, several M1 Astray Shrikes were stationed on the massive sea carrier Takemikazuchi during the battles at Dardanelles and at Crete. Later, when ZAFT invaded Orb, numerous M1 Astrays and M1 Astray Shrikes were deployed to defend the nation.
In C.E. 75, the M1 Astray Shrikes were used to evacuate civilians from Orb's capital, Olofat, under threat from Requiem controlled by the Kingdom of Foundation.