Technology & Combat Characteristics
After the successful release of the MS-06R-1 Zaku II High Mobility Test Type the Zeon engineers began to receive feedback from the pilots on ways the mobile suit's design could be improved. The biggest difference from the R-1 is that the fuel tanks on the back and legs have been modified into cartridges to solve the problem of propellant consumption. In particular, those of the legs are changed into cylindrical cartridges. This not only simplifies replenishment in the mother ship, but also allows for replenishment in outer space, and a platoon equipped with this unit is to be accompanied by a Zaku equipped with refill cartridges. As a result of these changes, the MS-06R-1A Zaku II High Mobility Type has a longer operation time. Furthermore, an escape system has been adopted in the cockpit for this machine, and it is possible to eject the seat and base forward in an emergency. The base has a certain degree of propulsion function, and is also equipped with solar cells and life support devices.
History
The MS-06R-1A Zaku II High Mobility Type was a highly sought after unit by ace pilots such as the Black Tri-Stars, Eric Manthfield, Masaya Nakagawa, and Shin Matsunaga. However, despite its incredible popularity and high performance, it was considered too difficult for rookie pilots to handle, and too expensive for mass production. Overall, 56 units were produced, and 10 more units were converted from existing MS-06R-1 Zaku II High Mobility Test Type. One unit was piloted by Vincent Gleissner of the Marchosias Corps and participated in the Battle of Solomon. In U.C. 0083, Char Aznable, Kamuji, and Fabian Frischknecht use the Tri-Stars' R-1A Zakus to attack a Federation fleet.