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The VT-1 SUPER OSTRICH, which appeared in the Macross OVA, do you remember it? This film was released 40 years ago (it's actually older than me), and I only became familiar with MACROSS when I was studying. Although it's a 40-year-old work, it hasn't fallen behind at all; some of its technologies (like instant projection clothing changes) have even appeared in real life. Whether it's comics, animation, or writing, the purpose is to give people room for imagination.
Getting back to the main topic, let's talk about the toy itself. Since the mobile suits in the VF series don't differ too much, I won't go into excessive detail. I will focus on the unique features of this training aircraft.
Its paint application is well done, and there are no significant issues to be found.
Let's look at its booster parts. The leg parts are directly assembled from two pieces, and similarly, there are no major issues. The outer armor of the legs can be flipped open to reveal the mechanical details within. It would naturally be even better if these details had some paint application!
As for the arms, there are no parts.
Another area with parts is the back. For this training unit's back, the tail fins cannot be connected; they can only be straightened and then inserted into the groove on the back (some of my photos didn't show them properly connected). Then, the back parts are installed on top. Don't worry, the installation is very secure, but it also doesn't take much effort to remove, which is a good design.
The left booster has an antenna, which is quite thick, and two are provided, so you don't have to worry when playing with it. As for when the parts are not in use, the back of the aircraft also has an antenna, but that one is much thinner, and I'm not too keen on handling it (although two are provided for that one too).
In the theatrical version, only its F MODE and G MODE appeared, but it can still transform into its B MODE robot form.
That "unibrow" is absolutely adorable! I couldn't resist taking many photos.
Because in the theatrical version, Hikaru Ichijo only flew it for a joyride, completely oblivious to encountering enemies, he ended up "stealing" an aircraft that wasn't equipped with weapons. However, it still provides us with a gun-holding hand, so if you want to, you can attach a gun under the F MODE aircraft.
As for the most attractive aspect of the entire aircraft, it's undoubtedly the four mini-figures: two Hikaru Ichijo (one with a helmet, one without), one Minmay (wearing a spacesuit and holding a helmet), and one Misa.
The mini-figures' faces are unpainted, which is understandable; it can be treated as "negative space," and you can imagine their expressions. As for the paint application on other areas, it's also good. The Hikaru Ichijo mini-figure has a pair of small LEGO hands, which are perfect for holding the cockpit controls. The other mini-figures are exceptionally well-crafted and are quite enjoyable to play with.
The only minor drawback is that the tent originally requires you to find paper to make it yourself; it only provides us with the pattern and assembly method, which is a bit of a shame.
Overall, if you are a fan of the series, this unit should be a must-have.
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