Technology & Combat Characteristics
The Gouf Test Prototype was the most unique machine among the C-type Gouf series, which was known as a minor change series because it had the least aggressive construction, and with a focus on strengthening fixed armaments. Unlike the C-1 to C-4 models which were developed by Gouf's manufacturer Zeonic company, the C-5 was a modified MS-07B Gouf license-built by Zimmad, the business rival of Zeonic which was developing its own ground combat mobile suit, the YMS-09 Prototype Dom, for Zeon Armed Forces. As an experimental MS, the C-5 Gouf had all the fixed armaments from MS-07 Gouf series removed, namely the heat rod and finger vulcans. The unit featured new equipment included cross-style monoeye sensor, new shoulder armors, regular manipulators, new waist, additional leg thrusters with thermonuclear hover engines, and a heat saber. The unit was given the model number MS-07C-5 by Zeon military for convenience, hence the difference between the C-5 and the rest of the C-type Goufs.
History
Based on the Gouf, the MS-07C-5 Gouf Test Prototype was equipped with parts with unique functions made by Zimmad, and tests were conducted at a test site in North America on each part, including their individual performance and operational aspects. Tests necessary for the development of the Dom, such as checking the practicality of the cross-style monoeye, test of high-speed movement using the new thermonuclear hover engine, and the power and usable time of the heat saber, were repeated, and data and know-how were accumulated. Test results were immediately sent back to the Zeon's homeland in Side 3 and used as feedback for the development of the MS-09 Dom series. Only one unit of C-5 Gouf was produced, and there was no record of it participating in combat.