Technology & Combat Characteristics
The RMS-192M Zaku Mariner is an amphibious mobile suit developed by the Earth Federation Forces at Jaburo based on the Principality of Zeon's MS-06M Zaku Marine Type. To operate underwater, the Zaku Mariner featured a pressure-resistant frame, and an internal pressure hull to protect its cockpit, ballast mechanisms, flotation components, cooling system, etc. As the successor to the Zaku Marine Type, the Zaku Mariner has improved underwater movement speed and mobility thanks to a higher output reactor. It also has better pressure resistance, enabling it to dive to a depth of 2,000m which far exceeds its predecessor's maximum diving depth of 400m. This is a result of revised armor materials, and a simplified body structure.
For travelling underwater, the mobile suit is equipped with four hydro jet thrusters, two in the backpack and one at the front of each leg, and they allow it to achieve a cruising speed of over 50 knots. The leg-mounted hydro jet thrusters can be detached when the Zaku Mariner is operating on land to avoid deadweight, and the backpack's hydro jet thrusters also have a similar feature. When required, the backpack can be replaced with another type equipped with two variable thrusters for operating on the water surface.
To enhance communication underwater, the Zaku Mariner has a rod antenna on its head as part of its standard equipment, and this antenna is changed to a blade-type for commander units. Similarly, the the mono-eye rail on its head has been extended to the top and rear for better visual awareness while underwater. It also has various sensors mounted in its backpack. In terms of armaments, the Zaku Mariner is equipped with SUBROC Launchers in its shoulders and backpack, and also uses a handheld Spray Missile Gun, and all these weapons can be fired at targets in the water or on land. To save cost, some of the Zaku Mariner's external parts are recycled from captured Zaku II units. It is also said to be easy to pilot and maintain.
History
The RMS-192M Zaku Mariner was deployed by the Earth Federation Forces to various coastal bases. Following the collapse of the Titans and the invasion of Dakar by the Neo Zeon forces during the First Neo Zeon War, the Zaku Mariner ended up in the hands of various factions. Notably, a team of Zaku Mariners were used by Neo Zeon to attack the Argama after the ship had descended to Earth.
In U.C. 0096, at least two Zaku Mariners were used by the Zeon Remnants alongside other amphibious mobile suits during their attack on the Federation Forces' Torrington Base. During the battle, these Zaku Mariners managed to deal some damage to the base, but they were later destroyed by the RX-160S Byarlant Custom.