The Brewtine Chillaid (UEDF reporting name: Z-RLG Mk. II) Anti-Aircraft Guided Rocket Launcher was issued to Zentraedi infantry of the Main Fleet. Short range missiles were laser guided. The body of the Brewtine was exceptionally light, being made of woven composite materials. Lightness was a priority in the weapon’s design, as the rocket launcher was meant to be carried in addition to a Chillaid Rodrup IC-AR Assault Rifle. The Brewtine was originally issued in small numbers, but as the war against the Invid ramped up, it found itself being utilized more and more as it was well suited to engaging small airborne targets such as the Iiga Scout Troopers and Gurab Shook Troopers.
Year Introduced: 1641 C.E.
Capacity: 5 missiles, magazine-fed
Rate of Fire: Semi-automatic
Weight: 238 kg (empty)
Length: 5.2 m
Robotech (R) is the property of Harmony Gold. The Super Dimension Fortress Macross (R) is the properties of Big West Advertising and Studio Nue. This document is in no way intended to infringe upon their rights.
Original artwork by: Kevin Siembieda, Kevin Long, Daniel Dussault, Allen Manning, Brian Manning, Apollo Okamura, Benjamin Rodriguez, Charles Walton II and Michael Wilson
After the introduction of their standard battle-armors, the UEDF went on to design armors for those armies needing environmental suits. Among these branches was the Naval Division. Like the non-environmental CBR-series TA-P and ITA-P armor, the Hostile Environment Armor – Plate (HEA-P) series armors were distinguished by branch of service and the pilot’s gender, and the helmets by rank – officer, non-commissioned officer, and unrated enlisted. Unlike the normal CBR armor types, these armors were completely self-contained, and could support the wearer for some time without external support. Additional support was possible through the use of backpacks, and this was necessary for long exposure to hazardous environments.
The CBR Mk. 1M Marine Amphibious Armor (MAA) was designed for use by the Naval Division’s (NAD) Naval Infantry units. These units filled the same role as the Marine Corps of Earth’s pre-war militaries. As such, the NAD needed a fully amphibious armor for amphibious assaults, clearing beachheads and underwater demolitions. The CBR Mk. 1M fulfilled this role through the use of an integrated dry suit, swimming fins and a positive buoyancy system built into the chest. These features allowed the Naval Infantryman to operate in water up to a depth of 35 meters. On land, the CBR Mk 1M was comparable to the CBR Mk. 1 Tactical Body Armor – Plate in both weight and mobility.
The CBR Mk. 1M was composed of the same plastic-ceramic composite material as the rest of the CBR series. This material was optimized for maximal resistance to penetration and thermic explosive damage for minimal weight. The armor stops most small arms fire and grenade and shell fragments, and provides poor to fair resistance against heavier infantry weapons, such as a 12.7mm machinegun round. The CBR Mk. 1M armor consists of separate leg, arm, torso, and helmet units, and covers the entire body.
The CBR Mk. 1M Marine Amphibious Armor (MAA) has the following features:
Positive buoyancy system built into the chest plate. This consisted of a large inflatable bladder with an independent nitrogen supply that could inflate and deflate to match the wearer’s needs. Typically, the system would operate at neutral buoyancy for SCUBA operations. It could inflate to the point of positive buoyancy if needed, allowing the wearer to float on the surface of the water. The system was not automatic, and the wearer was required to fine toon the system for his individual weight.
Ridged swimming fins. Detachable fins were built into the feet to allow the wearer to swim in the same way as a conventional SCUBA diver.
Thermal regulation system: Integrated dry suit with full temperature control, by the use of Peltier-electric cooling units in armor, conducting heat between the thermally conducting inner and outer layers of the armor. A simple reversal of the voltage can alternate the armor from heating to cooling the pilot. Between the thermally conducting layers on all these pieces, and on the inner surfaces of all other pieces of armor, is a thin insulating layer, designed to minimize non-directed heat transfer. The Peltier-electric units are powered by small batteries in the armor units that contain them and are designed to assist pilot comfort in hot and cold climes. The units are insufficient for protection above 75 and below -55 degrees Celsius. Heat resistant up to 500K for brief periods.
Pressure resistance: The suit is rated to a pressure of 350 kilopascals.
The LAR IX Draeger rebreather. A closed-circuit SCUBA device. Running on 100% oxygen, all expelled breath is recycled into the closed circuit where it is filtered for carbon-dioxide. The result is a complete elimination of expelled bubbles which makes the Draeger ideal for clandestine amphibious operations.
Tactical Helmet: The helmet has a removable face-shield with variable-tint photochromic polarized polycarbonate eyeslits. Contrary to popular belief, the eyeslits do not have integrated night vision or IR spectrum imaging. The NVG-647 Amphibious Night Vision Device can be attached directly to the faceplate, providing both of these features.
Tactical Radio: Narrow band, short range tactical radio for communication at the platoon level. The microphone and speakers are built into the helmet. This communication system will also wirelessly synch with longer range tactical radios, both dismounted and vehicle mounted. The system incorporates ultra-low frequency (1Hz to 3kHz) for short range underwater communication.
Robotech (R) is the property of Harmony Gold. Super Dimension Cavalry Southern Cross (R) is the property of Big West Advertising, Tatsunoko Studio and Ammonite studio. This document is in no way intended to infringe upon their rights.
Original artwork by: Kogawa Tomonori, Hiroyuki Kitazume, Miyo Sonoda, Hiroshi Ogawa, Hirotoshi Ohkura and Takashi Ono
Acknowledgement is extended to Peter Walker, Pieter Thomassen and Robert Morgenstern of the unofficial Robotech Reference Guide. Peter Walker, Pieter Thomassen and Robert Morgenstern are given credit for all quotes and paraphrasing of the unofficial Robotech Reference Guide that has been utilized in this publication.
Images from –This is Animation #10 The Southern Cross, Unspecified Super Dimension Cavalry Southern Cross OSM, Robotech Masters Saga Sourcebook (March 2009),
Robotech New Generation Sourcebook (November 2011), The Robotech RPG Book Four: Southern Cross (September 1987)
Content by Peter Walker and Pieter Thomassen, with Rob Morgenstern, edited by Tim Wing
The Makarov pistol or PM (Russian: Пистолет Макарова, Pistolet Makarova, literally Makarov’s Pistol) is a Russian semi-automatic pistol. Under the project leadership of Nikolay Fyodorovich Makarov, it became the Soviet Union’s standard military and police side arm from 1951 to 2023. Though it was supplanted by the LP Laser Pistol in the early twenties, it remained in service all the way to the Invid Invasion.
Type: Semi-automatic pistol
Place of origin: Soviet Union
Service history: 1951–2031
Designer: Nikolay Makarov
Manufacturer: Izhevsk Mechanical Plant (Soviet Union), Ernst Thaelmann (German Democratic Republic), Arsenal AD (Bulgaria), Norinco (China), Factory 626 (China)
Weight: 730 g
Cartridge: 9×18mm Makarov
Effective firing range: 50 meters
Feed system: 8-round detachable box magazine
The PM is a medium-size, straight-blowback-action, all-steel construction, frame-fixed barrel handgun. The 9×18mm cartridge is a practical cartridge in blowback-operated pistols; producing a respectable level of energy from a gun of moderate weight and size. The PM was heavy for its size by UEDF standards, largely because in a blowback pistol, the heavy slide provides greater inertia to delay opening of the breech until internal pressures have fallen to a safe level. Though heavy, the Makarov is widely regarded as particularly well balanced in its design elements.
The general layout and field-strip procedure of the Makarov pistol is similar to that of the Walther PPK. However, designer Makarov and his team drastically simplified the construction of the pistol, improving reliability and reducing the part count to an astonishing 27, not including the magazine. This allowed considerable ease of manufacture and servicing. All of the individual parts of the PM have been optimized for mass production, robustness and interchangeability, partially thanks to captured German tooling, technology, and machinery.
Robotech (R) is the property of Harmony Gold. The Super Dimension Fortress Macross (R) is the properties of Big West Advertising and Studio Nue. This document is in no way intended to infringe upon their rights.
Original artwork by: Shoji Kawamori, Miyatake Kazutaka, Haruhiko Mikimoto and Hidetaka Tenjin
Weight: 11.4 kg TFA-P Type 2); 11.2 kg (TFA-P Type 9); 7.8 kg (LJA Light Jump-Armor)
The SCAR CBR Mk. 1F TFA-P (Tactical Flying Armor – Plate) was designed specifically for pilots and aircrew. While not all aircrew in the United Earth Defense Force (UEDF) wore TFA-P armor, the vast majority who flew combat aircraft did. Because of the size and bulkiness of the armor, the cockpits of most aircraft had to be redesigned to accommodate the pilot in this guise. Pilots who found themselves assigned to units operating older air frames, however, would have to make due with traditional flight suits.
The CBR Mk. 1F TFA-P had many of the same features as other Southern Cross armors, but wear designed specifically for pilots. The TFA-P armors had integrated G-Suits, with expanding air bladders built into the legs and torso of the armor. An integrated oxygen supply was also built into the armor. It must be stressed though that these armors were not full environmental suits. They had no pressure sealing or radiation protection. What’s more, since they were not simple plate armor systems, they could not be worn over a space suit, as was the case with the CBR Mk. 1 and 2 Tactical Body Armors. The CBR Mk. 1F TFA-P armors are composed of a plastic-ceramic composite for maximal resistance to penetration and thermic explosive damage for minimal weight. The armor stops most small arms fire and grenade and shell fragments, and provides poor to fair resistance against heavier infantry weapons, such as a 12.7mm machine-gun round. The TFA-P armor consists of separate leg, arm, torso, and helmet units, and covers the entire body.
Like all armor of the Southern Cross, the TFA-P armors fell out of use soon after the Invid occupation of Earth and the destruction of the UEDF.
The CBR Mark 1F TFA-P armors have the following features:
Thermal regulation system: Full temperature control, by the use of Peltier-electric cooling units in armor, conducting heat between the thermally conducting inner and outer layers of the armor. A simple reversal of the voltage can alternate the armor from heating to cooling the pilot. Between the thermally conducting layers on all these pieces, and on the inner surfaces of all other pieces of armor, is a thin insulating layer, designed to minimize non-directed heat transfer. The Peltier-electric units are powered by small batteries in the armor units that contain them, and are designed to assist pilot comfort in hot and cold climes. The units are insufficient for protection above 75 and below -55 degrees Celsius. Heat resistant up to 500K for brief periods.
Integrated Oxygen Control System: The suit is designed to be plugged into the aircraft’s oxygen supply system. The suit also carries its own independent oxygen supply, with 10 minutes maximum.
Tactical Helmet: The helmet has a removable face-shield with variable-tint photochromic polarized polycarbon eyeslits. Contrary to popular belief, the eyeslits do not have integrated night vision or IR spectrum imaging. The NVG-645 can be attached directly to the faceplate, providing both of these features.
Tactical Radio: Narrow band, short range tactical radio for communication at the platoon level. The microphone and speakers are built into the helmet. This communication system will also wirelessly synch with longer range tactical radios, both dismounted and vehicle mounted.
Integrated G-suit: Integrated g-suits composed of air bladders in the legs and torso that automatically inflated in order to assist the pilot in dealing with high g maneuvers encountered in air to air combat.
CBR Mk. 1F TFA-P types:
CBR Mk. 1F TFA-P Type 2: Worn by aircrews assigned to the UEDF Civil Defense Flying Corps. The typical paint scheme for this armor was gray and white, with red and black trim.
CBR Mk. 1F TFA-P Type 9: Worn by aircrews assigned to the UEDF Tactical Air Corps. The typical paint scheme for this armor was intermediate brown earth and light desert tan. Note that the desert tan portions of the armor were so light that they were often mistaken for having been painted white.
CBR Mk. 1F LJA Light Jump-Armor: Worn by Special Purpose soldiers assigned to the UEDF Reconnaissance Escort Patrol Division (REP). This armor was specifically designed for both High Altitude Low Opening (HALO) and High Altitude High Opening (HAHO) jumps. It is also worn by aircrews in the REP. Typical paint schemes were theatre of operations specific, though the official paint scheme mirrored the REP’s official colors of light lavender with white trim and red shoulders.
Robotech (R) is the property of Harmony Gold. Super Dimension Cavalry Southern Cross (R) is the property of Big West Advertising, Tatsunoko Studio and Ammonite studio. This document is in no way intended to infringe upon their rights.
Original artwork by: Kogawa Tomonori, Hiroyuki Kitazume, Miyo Sonoda, Hiroshi Ogawa, Hirotoshi Ohkura and Takashi Ono
by Pieter Thomassen, with Peter Walker and Robert Morgenstern
edited by Tim Wing
Attachments:
Light Solugi Armor reference file
Light Solugi Armor gallery
Designation: Invid Solugi Light Armor
Type: Mixed Hard / Soft Armor
Year Introduced: 2042
Weight: Unknown
As the Regess began to promote her highest princes and princesses into the humanoid form, the need was seen for an armor suit for these individuals, whether while operating on their own, or as a flak jacket for piloting mecha. These royal Invid were not considered expendable, like the previous incarnation of the race was. However, Invid reliance on mecha, and their military superiority on Earth, argued against the need for a heavy armor like the CVR-3. To maintain flexibility and comfort, the Invid Solugi were issued a light kevlar-like suit, to which harder carapaces were attached at the joints and chest. In addition, the collar was also hard, despite its starched cloth-like contour, and was designed to protect the neck of the Solugi from gunfire at oblique angles and from behind. A matching helmet was designed, but was never issued.
The Solugi Armor only saw service for a year and a half in the Regess’ armies, but has been adopted by the apostate Solugi who remained on Earth after the Battle of Reflex Point and formed the Invid Hegemony in Australia.
The Invid Solugi Light Armor is composed of a composite of kevlar-like fiber and hard ceramic composite carapaces. It typically provides fair protection against small arms fire, and good protection against small grenade and shell fragments, and the hard parts provide excellent protection against small grenade and shell fragments, good protection against small arms fire, and poor resistance to heavier infantry weapons, such as the 12.7mm machinegun round, as well as from fragments and near misses from higher caliber weapons.
Robotech (R) is the property of Harmony Gold. Genesis Climber MOSPEADA (R) is the property of Fuji Television, Artmic Studio and Tatsunoko Production. This document is in no way intended to infringe upon their rights.
Original artwork by: Yoshitaka Amano, Shinji Aramaki and Hideki Kakinuma
Acknowledgement is extended to Peter Walker, Pieter Thomassen and Robert Morgenstern of the unofficial Robotech Reference Guide. Peter Walker, Pieter Thomassen and Robert Morgenstern are given credit for all quotes and paraphrasing of the unofficial Robotech Reference Guide that has been utilized in this publication.
Images from – Art Book Genesis Climber MOSPEADA Complete Art Works (August 2009)
Content by Peter Walker and Pieter Thomassen, with Rob Morgenstern, edited by Tim Wing
NOTE: The average Zentraedi stands 9.5 meter tall and weighs approximately 14 tons.
Protection:
Immunity from hand-fired solids and energy beams, shrapnel, and other fragments. Very limited protection from heavier weaponry, adequate only up to 12.7mm AP machine gun shells and comparative weapons. This armor is only built into the Zentraedi light body armor suit, which is a true environment suit, providing good protection against biological and chemical weapons.
Development:
All Zentraedi were issued body armor for their combat duties. The light armor package was mainly for light work and duties aboard Zentraedi vessels and bases. It was also worn by pilots of the shuttles and the TSR. Pilots of the power armors and fighter pods relied on an unarmored flight suit.
Robotech (R) is the property of Harmony Gold. The Super Dimension Fortress Macross (R) is the properties of Big West Advertising and Studio Nue. This document is in no way intended to infringe upon their rights.
Original artwork by: Shoji Kawamori, Miyatake Kazutaka, Haruhiko Mikimoto and Hidetaka Tenjin
Acknowledgement is extended to the work of Egan Loo and the Macross Compendium. Egan Loo is given all credit for all quotes and paraphrasing of the Macross Compendium that has been utilized in this publication.
Images Courtesy of Chad Wilson (Marchly) and the Macross Mecha Manual. Chad Wilson is given all credit for all images from the Macross Mecha Manual that have been utilized in this publication.
Acknowledgement is extended to Peter Walker, Pieter Thomassen and Robert Morgenstern of the unofficial Robotech Reference Guide. Peter Walker, Pieter Thomassen and Robert Morgenstern are given credit for all quotes and paraphrasing of the unofficial Robotech Reference Guide that has been utilized in this publication.
Images from – Macross Perfect Memory (1983)
Content by Peter Walker and Pieter Thomassen, with Rob Morgenstern, edited by Tim Wing
Designation: 60 Model Rigid Hostile Environment Suit
Note that this file is not meant to be comprehensive, but instead merely illustrative. The Tirolians have produced innumerable arms and armor throughout the centuries, and many can be found still in use. Some designs (and even some weapons) as old as thirteen centuries may be encountered. This file is intended to reflect the most common weapons and armor still in active service in the twenty-first century, when Earth encountered Tirol, and when the dying empire of the Masters finally collapsed.
Type: Hostile Environment Suit
Year Introduced: 1121
Weight: 7.3kg
This suit is the basic life support suit used by the Tirolian civilians and light-duty military. It provides complete environmental control for use in space or in deep water. The suit has a rigid exterior that provides minimal protection from attack, although primarily for use in repelling space debris or withstanding the pressures of deep water.
The Tirolian suit is composed of a plastic-ceramic composite for maximal resistance to penetration and thermic explosive damage for minimal weight. The armor stops most small arms fire, provides poor protection against heavier infantry weapons, such as a 12.7mm machinegun round, and no resistance to light mecha-mounted weaponry, such as the Zentraedi 22.3mm HE autocannon round.
The Tirolian environment suit has the following features:
Temperature control, by the use of Peltier-electric cooling units in armor, conducting heat between the thermally conducting inner and outer layers of the armor. A simple reversal of the voltage can alternate the armor from heating to cooling the pilot. Between the thermally conducting layers on all these pieces, and on the inner surfaces of all other pieces of armor, is a thin insulating layer, designed to minimize non-directed heat transfer. The Peltier-electric units are powered by small batteries in the armor units that contain them, and are designed to assist pilot comfort in hot and cold climes. The units are capable of providing the heat and cooling necessary for extended operations in deep space.
4 hour oxygen supply (based on normal operation. Longer if comatose)
Radio microphone and speakers in the helmet
Data display onto faceplate, as well as numerous optics options, including wide-view, infra-red, telescopic, motion detector, and millimetric radar overlays onto visual band image
Robotech (R) is the property of Harmony Gold. Super Dimension Cavalry Southern Cross (R) is the property of Big West Advertising, Tatsunoko Studio and Ammonite studio. This document is in no way intended to infringe upon their rights.
Original artwork by: Kogawa Tomonori, Hiroyuki Kitazume, Miyo Sonoda, Hiroshi Ogawa, Hirotoshi Ohkura and Takashi Ono
Acknowledgement is extended to Peter Walker, Pieter Thomassen and Robert Morgenstern of the unofficial Robotech Reference Guide. Peter Walker, Pieter Thomassen and Robert Morgenstern are given credit for all quotes and paraphrasing of the unofficial Robotech Reference Guide that has been utilized in this publication.
Images from – N/A
Content by Peter Walker and Pieter Thomassen, with Rob Morgenstern, edited by Tim Wing
Designation: Tiresia Robotech Research Group CVR-3 Combat Veritech Ride Armor
Type: Hard Armor
Year Introduced: 2032
Weight: 11.2 kg (CVR-3H), 9.6 kg (CVR-3F)
Based on a modified version of the CVR-1 hard armor of the previous decade, the CVR-3 armor was developed in 2031 by the United Earth Expeditionary Force (UEEF) to be compatible with the then in-development Cyclone transformable combat motorcycle. The most notable new feature were the armored telescoping boots, which were designed to increase the pilot’s stride in Battloid mode, and to attach to the Cyclone’s frame and servos, removing the need for the pilot to support the heavy weapons system with his own strength. The standard version, standard issue for male pilots of all Cyclones, was built in several variants. The first was the CVR-3A, followed by the B, D, and H. Though the H was by far the most common variant by the end of the Invid Occupation, all versions could be found on Invid occupied Earth. All of these versions of the CVR-3 were compatible with the full range of VR-series Cyclone Veritechs. Because of the lower weight of the VR-038 Bartley scout Veritech cycle, the standard armor’s boots were more than enough to support the mecha and distribute its weight over the ground. In an attempt to further reduce the Bartley’s weight and improve its mobility, a lighter version of the armor – constructed exclusively for female soldiers – was produced and designated the CVR-3F.
Both armors entered wide service in 2032 with the introduction of the Cyclone, and were quickly adopted by all branches of the UEEF – though soldiers not anticipating using a Cyclone would often not wear the leg armor, to reduce weight and improve mobility. The introduction of the VR-055 Devastator in 2043 required minor modifications to the armor, which was designated the CVR-3M, and this new armor is not fully backwards-compatible with the Cyclones supported by the CVR-3 system, though most components of the armor are identical.
The CVR-3 armors are composed of a plastic-ceramic composite for maximal resistance to penetration and thermic explosive damage for minimal weight. The armor stops most small arms fire and grenade and shell fragments, and provides poor to fair resistance against heavier infantry weapons, such as a 12.7mm machinegun round.
The armor on the thighs is substantially weaker, and provides fair protection against small arms fire, and good protection against small grenade and shell fragments. The boot pieces are identical in armor to the Cyclone, and the armor is composed of an advanced titanium-steel alloy. Protection on the CVR-3F’s boots is similar to that on the Bartley model Cyclone, and the armor on the CVR-3’s boots is similar to that on the Battler model.
Vulnerable areas of the pilot are the upper arms, and a small part of the abdomen and back. The armor consists of a light helmet, a breastplate with shoulder guards, forearm guards, a groin harness, light thigh armor, and heavy boots that constitute the legs in Cyclone Battloid mode.
The CVR-3 armors have the following features:
Limited temperature control, by the use of Peltier-electric cooling units in armor, conducting heat between the thermally conducting inner and outer layers of the breastplate, helmet, and leg armors. A simple reversal of the voltage can alternate the armor from heating to cooling the pilot. Between the thermally conducting layers on all these pieces, and on the inner surfaces of all other pieces of armor, is a thin insulating layer, designed to minimize non-directed heat transfer. The Peltier-electric units are powered by small batteries in the armor units that contain them, and are designed to assist pilot comfort in hot and cold climes. The units are insufficient for protection above 45 and below -25 degrees Celsius.
Filter and independent Oxygen supply, 30 minutes maximum with filter and 5 minutes with internal Oxygen alone. The CVR helmet is normally unsealed, but when a seal is desired (or pressure drops suddenly) an inflatable ring at the base of the helmet expands, making a seal around the pilot’s neck. This does not make the CVR an environment suit; the primary purpose of this system is to provide battlefield protection against chemical warfare in conjunction with a specially designed under-suit, and to provide some protection for a pilot, until a rescue team can arrive, should his vehicle depressurize in space. Space Suit under CVR-3
Heat resistant up to 500K for brief periods
Helmet with variable-tint photochromic polarized polycarbon faceplate.
Radio microphone and speakers in the helmet
Optional utility belt that mounts to the Cyclone mounting points on the groin harness; must be broken away before Cyclone transformation can occur.
It is possible to wear an environment suit under the CVR armor, with the external consumables supply leads going through the CVR armor by way of special channels in the armor, after which they can plug into the mecha’s life-support system or, for unmounted wearers, into a standard environmental supply backpack.
Robotech (R) is the property of Harmony Gold. Genesis Climber MOSPEADA (R) is the property of Fuji Television, Artmic Studio and Tatsunoko Production. This document is in no way intended to infringe upon their rights.
Original artwork by: Yoshitaka Amano, Shinji Aramaki and Hideki Kakinuma
Acknowledgement is extended to Peter Walker, Pieter Thomassen and Robert Morgenstern of the unofficial Robotech Reference Guide. Peter Walker, Pieter Thomassen and Robert Morgenstern are given credit for all quotes and paraphrasing of the unofficial Robotech Reference Guide that has been utilized in this publication.
Images from – Art Book Genesis Climber MOSPEADA Complete Art Works (August 2009), Robotech II: The RPG, Robotech Expeditionary Force Field Guide (March 1989)
Content by Peter Walker and Pieter Thomassen, with Rob Morgenstern, edited by Tim Wing
Weight: 11.1 kg (-1E); 8.1 kg (-2E TASC); 11.25 kg (-2E TSC)
After the introduction of their standard battle-armors, the UEDF went on to design armors for those armies needing environmental suits: the Tactical Space Corps and Tactical Armored Space Corps, and for the REF’s Tactical Naval Corps and Marine Corps. Like the non-environmental CBR-series TA-P and ITA-P armor, the Hostile Environment Armor – Plate (HEA-P) series armors were distinguished by branch of service and the pilot’s gender, and the helmets by rank – officer, non-commissioned officer, and unrated enlisted. Unlike the normal CBR armor types, these armors were completely self-contained, and were capable of supporting the wearer for some time without external support. Additional support was possible through the use of backpacks, and this was necessary for long exposure to hazardous environments.
The HEA-P were built in two versions: the original CBR Mk. 1E Hostile Environment Armor – Plate (HEA-P) and the CBR Mk. 2E Hostile Environment Armor – Plate (HEA-P). Both types were designed by the state owned Southern Cross Armament Research Corporation, and constructed by sub-contractors. Since there were no significant difference between the -1E and -2E models, other than a significant 3 kilogram reduction in weight, both will be addressed in this article.
Like the TA-P and ITA-P armor, the HEA-P armors fell out of use soon after the Invid occupation of Earth and the destruction of the Southern Cross.
The HEA-P armors are composed of a plastic-ceramic composite for maximal resistance to penetration and thermic explosive damage for minimal weight. The Mark 1E armor (which is essentially considered Light, though it is not designated as such) and the Mark 2E Type 2 Light TASC armor stops most small arms fire and grenade and shell fragments, and provides poor to fair resistance against heavier infantry weapons, such as a 12.7mm machinegun round. The Mark 2E TSC Heavy armor stops most small arms fire and grenade and shell fragments, and provides fair to good resistance against heavier infantry weapons, such as a 12.7mm machinegun round. The HEA-P armor consists of separate leg, arm, torso, and helmet units, and covers the entire body.
The CBR Mark 1E and 2E armors have the following features:
Magnetic Interface Locking System (MILS): Powerful electromagnets to secure various Extra-Vehicle Activity (EVA) space booster packs. Optional utility belt that mounts to the waist. The space booster pack is 32kg and contains reaction mass for 200 mps delta-v.
Thermal regulation system: Full temperature control, by the use of Peltier-electric cooling units in armor, conducting heat between the thermally conducting inner and outer layers of the armor. A simple reversal of the voltage can alternate the armor from heating to cooling the pilot. Between the thermally conducting layers on all these pieces, and on the inner surfaces of all other pieces of armor, is a thin insulating layer, designed to minimize non-directed heat transfer. The Peltier-electric units are powered by small batteries in the armor units that contain them, and are designed to assist pilot comfort in hot and cold climes. The units are insufficient for protection above 75 and below -55 degrees Celsius. Heat resistant up to 500K for brief periods.
Full pressure control: The suit is rated from a vacuum to a pressure of 350 kilopascals. Independent Oxygen supply, 60 minutes maximum.
Tactical Helmet: The helmet has a removable face-shield with variable-tint photochromic polarized polycarbon eyeslits. Contrary to popular belief, the eyeslits do not have integrated night vision or IR spectrum imaging. The NVG-645 can be attached directly to the faceplate, providing both of these features.
Tactical Radio: Narrow band, short range tactical radio for communication at the platoon level. The microphone and speakers are built into the helmet. This communication system will also wirelessly synch with longer range tactical radios, both dismounted and vehicle mounted.
Vernier-thrusters: TASC armor is equipped with 1mps Vernier-thrusters in the ankles.
Integrated G-suit: The Mark 1E and Mark 2E TASC armors had integrated g-suits composed of air bladders in the legs and torso that automatically inflated in order to assist the pilot in dealing with high g maneuvers encountered in space combat.
CB-S armored shields: Different designs existed for both the TASC and TSC. All were large arm-length shields with 25mps Vernier thrusters built into them.
CBR Mk. 2E Hostile Environment Armor – Plate (HEA-P) types:
CBR Mk. 1E Type 2 HEA-P: Hostile Environment Armor, Plate, Mark 1E Type 2. Introduced February 2021. Issued to the Reconnaissance Expeditionary Force (REF) Tactical Naval Corps and Marine Corps. Armor was typically painted grey with black trim (Naval), or olive drab with light grey trim (Marine). Replaced by the CVR-series of armors starting in 2034.
CBR Mk. 1E Type 3 HEA-P: Hostile Environment Armor, Plate, Mark 1E Type 3. Introduced October 2021. Issued to the Tactical Armored Space Corps. Armor was typically painted light grey with trim corresponding to unit markings. Replaced by the CBR Mk. 2E Type 2 HEA-P(L)starting in 2023.
CBR Mk. 2E Type 1 HEA-P(H): Hostile Environment Armor, Plate, Light, Mark 2E Type 1. Introduced January 2023. Issued to the Tactical Space Corps Naval Infantry. Armor was typically painted white with light blue trim.
CBR Mk. 2E Type 2 HEA-P(L): Hostile Environment Armor, Plate, Light, Mark 2E Type 2. Introduced November 2025. Issued to the Tactical Armored Space Corps. Armor was typically painted light grey with trim corresponding to unit markings.
Robotech (R) is the property of Harmony Gold. Super Dimension Cavalry Southern Cross (R) is the property of Big West Advertising, Tatsunoko Studio and Ammonite studio. This document is in no way intended to infringe upon their rights.
Original artwork by: Kogawa Tomonori, Hiroyuki Kitazume, Miyo Sonoda, Hiroshi Ogawa, Hirotoshi Ohkura and Takashi Ono
Acknowledgement is extended to Peter Walker, Pieter Thomassen and Robert Morgenstern of the unofficial Robotech Reference Guide. Peter Walker, Pieter Thomassen and Robert Morgenstern are given credit for all quotes and paraphrasing of the unofficial Robotech Reference Guide that has been utilized in this publication.
Images from –This is Animation #10 The Southern Cross, Unspecified Super Dimension Cavalry Southern Cross OSM, Robotech Masters Saga Sourcebook (March 2009),
Robotech New Generation Sourcebook (November 2011), The Robotech RPG Book Four: Southern Cross (September 1987)
Content by Peter Walker and Pieter Thomassen, with Rob Morgenstern, edited by Tim Wing
The United Earth Defense Force (UEDF), and to a lesser extent the Reconnaissance Expeditionary Force (REF), began to move away from the LPAS Light Personal Armor System in the early 2020’s in favor of a new full-body armor suit. The new CBR Mark 1 (CBR was a fairly awkward acronym for Combat Body armoR) was designed by the state owned Southern Cross Armament Research (SCAR) and manufactured by a variety of sub-contractors. Extremely decorative, the armor style not only conformed to a soldier’s gender (for obvious reasons), but to their army and rank as well. Stylistically different armors were developed for the each of the UEDF’s branches of service. Among each of these eleven army-specific types, there were divisions between male and female armors, and distinct helmet designs for unrated enlisted men, non-commissioned officers, and full officers. The REF decided a single armor style all of its service members, with no differentiation between officer, NCO or enlisted.
Because there were a multitude of distinct types of CBR armor, the designation system was extremely arcane; for example, a female ATAC officer would wear the CBR Mk. 1 ITA-P(L) AVC F/O; while a male sergeant in the Tactical Corps would wear the CBR Mk. 1 ITA-P(H) Type 1 TC M/NCO, and his male subordinates would wear the CBR Mk. 1 ITA-P(H) Type 1 TC M/E. Though, technically, the REF armor carried the equally cumbersome designation of CBR Mk. 1 TA-P(L) Type 4 M or F, in practice it was simply shortened to CBR Mk. 1M or CBR Mk. 1F.
The CBR-series armors were simple battle-armor, with some environmental control for comfort, but had no inherent space-capabilities.
The CBR-series armors are composed of a plastic-ceramic composite for maximal resistance to penetration and thermic explosive damage for minimal weight. The armor stops most small arms fire and grenade and shell fragments, and provides poor (in the case of the light armor) to fair (in the case of the heavy armor) resistance against heavier infantry weapons, such as a 12.7mm machinegun round. The armor consists of separate leg, arm, torso, and helmet units, and covers the entire body.
The CBR Mk. 1 TA-P armor was later superseded by the CBR Mk. 2, which decreased the armors weight and introduced a host of new features. By the beginning of the Second Robotech War, the Mark 2 had replaced the Mark 1 in most branches of the UEDF. Only the Civil Defense Units, the Tactical Corps Cold Weather Offensive Squads and the Tactical Corps armored vehicle crewmen still were issued Mark 1 style armor. Though these units were scheduled to receive updated Mark 2 style armor, this did not occur before the end of the war. In REF service (or United Earth Expeditionary Force as it was called later on) the CBR Mk. 1 TA-P stayed in service until the mid-thirties, by which time it was replaced in service by the CVR-series of Cyclone compatible personal armor.
The SCBA-series armors have the following features:
Thermal regulation system: Limited temperature control, by the use of Peltier-electric cooling units in armor, conducting heat between the thermally conducting inner and outer layers of the armor. A simple reversal of the voltage can alternate the armor from heating to cooling the pilot. Between the thermally conducting layers on all these pieces, and on the inner surfaces of all other pieces of armor, is a thin insulating layer, designed to minimize non-directed heat transfer. The Peltier-electric units are powered by small batteries in the armor units that contain them, and are designed to assist pilot comfort in hot and cold climes. The units are insufficient for protection above 45 and below -25 degrees Celsius. The Tactical Corps’ Arctic divisions employed armor that was more robust in this respect, capable of sustained -45 degrees operation, and included an air conditioning system that warmed the air for the wearer. The air conditioning and power supply for the additional sustained heating capacity were stored in a specialized backpack. Heat resistant up to 500K for brief periods
Tactical Helmet: The helmet has a removable face-shield with variable-tint photochromic polarized polycarbon eyeslits. Contrary to popular belief, the eyeslits do not have integrated night vision or IR spectrum imaging. The NVG-645 can be attached directly to the faceplate, providing both of these features.
Tactical Radio: Narrow band, short range tactical radio for communication at the platoon level. The microphone and speakers are built into the helmet. This communication system will also wirelessly synch with longer range tactical radios, both dismounted and vehicle mounted.
Optional armored shield: Different designs existed for the various armies and ranks. The GMP-EC, TAF, and CDFC tended to use shields not much larger than the forearm. The TC, ATAC, CDU, TC-Arctic, and TC-Desert use large shields as tall as the pilot’s arm is long. The other armies using the SCBA-series armor do not use shields. The GMP shield also serves as scabbard for a 50,000 Volt stun-baton that was standard issue with the armor.
Nuclear, Biological and Chemical (NBC) protection: The CBR Mk. 1 had no built in NBC or CBRN protection. A standard issue protective mask could be worn underneath the helmet, but often the faceplate could not be worn with a mira safety cm-7m gas mask on. The armor itself provided limited chemical protection, but was not air-tight. In situations where extreme chemical or biological contamination was present, a rubber Mission Oriented Protective Posture (MOPP) suit could be worn over the armor, but the suit itself was heavy and severely degraded the wearer’s mobility.
CBR Mk. 1 TA-P variants:
CBR Mk. 1 TA-P(H) Type 1: Tactical Armor, Plate, Heavy, Type 1. Introduced in April 2019. Issued to most combat troops in the UEDF Tactical Corps. Armor was typically painted medium earth brown with dark brown trim. Replaced by the CBR Mk 2 ITA-P(H) Type 1 in 2025.
CBR Mk. 1 TA-P(L) Type 2 AVC1: Tactical Armor, Plate, Light, Armor Vehicle Crewman One. Introduced July 2019. Issued to Veritech Hover Tank pilots and other vehicle crewmen in the Alpha Tactical Armored Cavalry. Armor was typically painted medium earth brown and white or medium earth brown overall. Replaced by the CBR Mk 2 ITA-P(L) AVC in 2026.
CBR Mk. 1 TA-P(L) Type 3 AVC2: Tactical Armor, Plate, Light, Armor Vehicle Crewman Two. Introduced in August 2019. Issued to armored vehicle crewmen in the UEDF Tactical Corps. Armor was typically painted medium earth brown with dark brown trim.
CBR Mk. 1 TA-P(L) Type 4: Tactical Armor, Plate, Light, Type 4. Introduced in May 2020. Issued to infantrymen in the REF/UEEF Marine Corps and Tactical Corps. Armor was typically painted medium blue with dark blue trim or medium earth brown with dark brown trim. Replaced by the CVR-series of armor starting in 2033.
CBR Mk. 1 TA-P(L) Type 5 CWS: Tactical Armor, Plate, Heavy, Cold Weather System. Introduced November 2020. Issued to the elite infantry troops of the Tactical Corps’ Cold Weather Offensive Squads. Special features included improved environmental control system with increased heating capacity and liquid waste reclamation system capable of recycling the wearer’s urine at a 70% rate of efficiency. Armor was typically painted white with lavender trim, or sage green overall.
CBR Mk. 1 TA-P(H) Type 9 HW1: Tactical Armor, Plate, Heavy, Hot Weather Type 1. Introduced November 2020. Issued to the elite infantry troops of the Tactical Corps’ Desert Squads. Special features included better sealing at the joints to help keep out desert sand and grit, improved environmental control system with extra heat sinks, integrated filtration systems for the mask and liquid waste reclamation system capable of recycling the wearer’s urine at a 70% rate of efficiency. Armor was typically painted desert tan and white, or desert tan overall. Replaced by the CBR Mk 2 ITA-P(H) HW1 in 2024. (Note: vehicle crewmen in the Desert Squad were typically issued CBR Mk. 1 TA-P (L) Armored Vehicle Crewman armor.)
CBR Mk. 1 TA-P(L) Type 10: Tactical Armor, Plate, Light, Type 10. Introduced September 2021. Issued to the Global Military Police, this armor was typically painted black and white, trimmed in colors corresponding to specific units. Replaced by the CBR Mk 2 ITA-P(L) Type 2 in 2026.
CBR Mk. 1 TA-P(L) Type 12: Tactical Armor, Plate, Light, Type 12. Introduced in January 2022. Issued to the Civil Defense Units. This armor was typically painted grey and white with red and black trim.
Robotech (R) is the property of Harmony Gold. Super Dimension Cavalry Southern Cross (R) is the property of Big West Advertising, Tatsunoko Studio and Ammonite studio. This document is in no way intended to infringe upon their rights.
Original artwork by: Kogawa Tomonori, Hiroyuki Kitazume, Miyo Sonoda, Hiroshi Ogawa, Hirotoshi Ohkura and Takashi Ono
Acknowledgement is extended to Peter Walker, Pieter Thomassen and Robert Morgenstern of the unofficial Robotech Reference Guide. Peter Walker, Pieter Thomassen and Robert Morgenstern are given credit for all quotes and paraphrasing of the unofficial Robotech Reference Guide that has been utilized in this publication.
Images from –This is Animation #10 The Southern Cross, Unspecified Super Dimension Cavalry Southern Cross OSM, Robotech Masters Saga Sourcebook (March 2009),
Robotech New Generation Sourcebook (November 2011), The Robotech RPG Book Four: Southern Cross (September 1987)
Content by Peter Walker and Pieter Thomassen, with Rob Morgenstern, edited by Tim Wing
CBR Mk. 1F TFA-P Type 9: Worn by aircrews assigned to the UEDF Tactical Air Corps. The typical paint scheme for this armor was intermediate brown earth and light desert tan. Note that the desert tan portions of the armor were so light that they were often mistaken for having been painted white.
The HEA-P armors are composed of a plastic-ceramic composite for maximal resistance to penetration and thermic explosive damage for minimal weight. The Mark 1E armor (which is essentially considered Light, though it is not designated as such) and the Mark 2E Type 2 Light TASC armor stops most small arms fire and grenade and shell fragments, and provides poor to fair resistance against heavier infantry weapons, such as a 12.7mm machinegun round. The Mark 2E TSC Heavy armor stops most small arms fire and grenade and shell fragments, and provides fair to good resistance against heavier infantry weapons, such as a 12.7mm machinegun round. The HEA-P armor consists of separate leg, arm, torso, and helmet units, and covers the entire body.
Because there were a multitude of distinct types of CBR armor, the designation system was extremely arcane; for example, a female ATAC officer would wear the CBR Mk. 1 ITA-P(L) AVC F/O; while a male sergeant in the Tactical Corps would wear the CBR Mk. 1 ITA-P(H) Type 1 TC M/NCO, and his male subordinates would wear the CBR Mk. 1 ITA-P(H) Type 1 TC M/E. Though, technically, the REF armor carried the equally cumbersome designation of CBR Mk. 1 TA-P(L) Type 4 M or F, in practice it was simply shortened to CBR Mk. 1M or CBR Mk. 1F.
