Gundam Exia (GN-001)

Technology & Combat Characteristics

A 3rd-Generation Gundam, Exia is designed to be a close quarters combat (CQC) type mobile suit (MS). The unit is the successor to GNY-001 Gundam Astraea and one of the predecessors to GN-0000 00 Gundam; much of Exia's design was heavily influenced from the Astraea. While there are strong similarities to Astraea, Exia has its own differences from weapons to systems.

Exia was created as a high-mobility unit to greatly supplement its CQC role. In order to maximize its potential in speed and movement, its legs was given the best human articulation as possible to improve its Active Mass Balance Auto Control(AMBAC).^[1] The trade-off is the reduction of armor parts in several joints that reveal its internal frame; its MS frame is more vulnerable against enemy attacks.^[1] However, the pilot can defend against enemy attacks with Exia's GN Shield. It's high mobility design has served Exia well as it has the lowest being-hit rate amongst the four 3rd-generation Gundams.^[1]

The Seven Swords System refers to the wide array of GN Blades that was designed and used on the Exia.^[2] While, redundancy and flexibility was built into the weapons selection for multiple scenarios and specializations in close combat situations, this was intentional as Exia's armaments were solid armaments instead of beams. The development of solid state swords was to anticipate against enemy units that could potentially rival the other Gundams. The sheath of GN Particles surrounding the blade interact with and eventually negate the tightly clustered particles of a GN Field for direct penetration.^{[citation needed]}

Exia's head contains the blackbox device used for quantum communication interface with Veda as well as some particle control ability.^[1] Its GN Condensers also can show visually the amount of particles it holds as well as the particle compression rate it is currently using.^[1] This ability is also used for secret communication with friendly forces.^[1]

When extreme firepower and defense is needed, Exia can receive combat support from GNR-001E GN Arms Type-E and the Assault Container. The GN Arms Type E itself is a customized transformable fighter, with mid-range beam weaponry and melee weapons themed after Exia's weapons silhouette. When greater power is needed, Exia and GN Arms can combine to become a mobile armor. Exia's GN Drive docks right into the MA to power the weapons platform. If a situation arises where greater speed is needed, Exia can be equipped with its own specialized armor, the Avalanche Pack, which would be later upgraded into the Avalanche ` Pack.

The Assault Container works on conjunction with the GN Arms and Exia as a miniature armed MS carrier. It was designed to dock both Exia and GN Arms for atmospheric entry and exit missions. It's heavily armored and has enough fire power to match an entire ESF battlefleet.

In addition, the Exia's extension cone chassis possess an ability that can temporarily increase the output of the equipped GN Drive and the ability of the suit temporarily in "burst"-like mode.^[1] However, this ability was rarely used as it is considered unstable however it was seen to be used in its upgraded form, the Exia Repair II.^[1][3] Exia's overall capabilities can be enhanced through the power of the Trans-Am System. With the Seven Sword armament combined with the skills of Meister, Setsuna F. Seiei, the Gundam Exia was a machine to be feared in close combat.