Technology & Combat Characteristics
The RGM-79 Powered GM was a testbed unit developed for the Gundam Development Project. Based on the RGM-79C GM Type C, it was equipped with an early development version of the RX-78GP01 Gundam GP01 "Zephyranthes"'s large backpack, as well as a pair of new model shock absorber units with integrated auxiliary power on its knees. Thanks to these modifications, its thrust was increased by 30%. Due to being a testbed unit, it was not given a new model number. Since the units assigned to Torrington Base were destroyed and the Gundam Development Project was later erased from Federation records, the details of its modifications and its specifications were all lost.
History
Several RGM-79 Powered GM units were manufactured at the Jaburo factory. Two units were assigned to Torrington Base for field testing, with one each assigned to the Burning Team and the Kalent Team. The former was piloted by Lt. Dick Allen, who used it as a training unit. During a mock battle that doubled as a data collection mission, the Powered GM displayed mobility far superior to those of the MS-06F-2 Zaku II F2 Type used by the pilot trainees, even without pushing its thrusters to the limit.
The Kalent Team's Powered GM was later severely damaged when a team from the Delaz Fleet, led by Anavel Gato, attacked Torrington Base and stole the RX-78GP02A Gundam GP02A "Physalis". During the subsequent pursuit of Gato's team to recover the stolen GP02A, Lt. Allen's unit was destroyed by a MS-09F/trop Dom Tropen in a surprise attack, instantly killing him.