Technology & Combat Characteristics
After the completion of the MSA-005 Methuss, Anaheim Electronics started to explore further development potential of the mobile suit. The MSA-005X-3 Methuss X-3 was the third and final prototype unit in this project. Like the MSA-005X-2 Methuss X-2, the X-3 was developed by Anaheim Electronics' Granada branch and its design team included former members of MIP, which developed Mobile Weapons for the Principality of Zeon during the One Year War. The X-3 was developed independently of the X-2, though they share some parts, and the two units were intended to work together on the battlefield. The X-3 was conceived as a base-assault unit and featured heavier armor, with the exception of an exposed abdomen, to resist anti-aircraft attacks. The X-3 was armed with a large mega particle cannon on its back, which can be used in both MA and MS modes, as well as multiple missile bays across its body. Though it is primarily intended to operate in MA mode, the X-3 also features knuckle guards around its manipulators for destroying enemy facilities. The X-3 can also be equipped with one of the boosters used by the X-2. Following testing and evaluation, the Methuss X-3 was redesigned as the MSA-005S Methuss Kai.