METAL BUILD MS-18E Kämpfer, Premium Bandai

METAL BUILD MS-18E Kämpfer from Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket OVA is now available as action figure die-cast Gunpla Metal Build Premium Bandai.

P-Bandai Gunpla METAL BUILD MS-18E Kämpfer from Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket

The iconic "Fighter" Kampfer from the first One Year War MS has joined the prestigious METAL BUILD series! For the first time in history, this complete toy measures approximately 180mm, bringing the formidable Kampfer to life. Almost all armor parts are meticulously painted, showcasing an unprecedented level of detail. The integration of die-casting, featuring multiple platings across the body, provides a realistic texture and weight unique to metal construction.

Supervised by the original mechanical designer Yutaka Izubuchi, the color scheme and markings of Kampfer in this METAL BUILD edition express a heightened sense of realism, setting it apart from its predecessors. This release showcases the latest technology in action.

Kampfer comes equipped with an array of weapons, including a shotgun, Giant Buzz, and Sturm Faust. A distinctive addition is the portable chain mine rack, an exclusive METAL BUILD equipment. A specially designed pedestal is included, allowing enthusiasts to recreate iconic scenes from the series. Immerse yourself in the world of Kampfer, meticulously crafted with the latest technology!

MS-18E Kämpfer

The MS-18E Kämpfer is a striking example of Zeon’s emphasis on speed and overwhelming firepower during the final stages of the One Year War. Featured in Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket, this heavy assault mobile suit was engineered for rapid strike operations rather than prolonged combat. Its sleek, streamlined design allows for exceptional mobility in both space and colony environments, enabling it to close distances quickly and unleash devastating attacks before the enemy can properly respond. Armed with an impressive array of weapons—ranging from shotguns and bazookas to chain mines—the Kämpfer embodies a “hit-and-run” philosophy, sacrificing heavy armor for agility and offensive capability.

Piloted by Mikhail Kaminsky of Zeon’s elite Cyclops Team, the Kämpfer plays a pivotal role in a covert mission aimed at destroying a prototype Federation mobile suit. Kaminsky’s skillful handling of the machine highlights its strengths, as he maneuvers through tight colony spaces and engages multiple enemies with precision and aggression. However, the very design choices that make the Kämpfer so formidable also contribute to its vulnerability; its lighter armor leaves little room for error in extended engagements. This balance between power and fragility underscores the desperation of Zeon’s late-war strategies, making the Kämpfer not just a powerful weapon, but also a symbol of a fading war effort relying on bold, high-risk tactics.

Bandai Metal Build Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket

Bandai’s METAL BUILD line brings a premium, die-cast reinterpretation to the world of Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket, elevating its mechanical designs with a striking blend of realism and stylization. Known for its intricate engineering, the METAL BUILD treatment emphasizes sharp panel lines, layered armor, and a satisfying weight thanks to metal components integrated into the frame. This approach transforms the mobile suits from the OVA into highly detailed collector pieces, capturing both the gritty tone of the series and the refined craftsmanship that defines Bandai’s high-end offerings.

What makes these figures especially compelling is how they balance faithful adaptation with creative enhancement. While the original designs in War in the Pocket lean toward grounded, utilitarian aesthetics, METAL BUILD versions often introduce subtle redesigns—enhanced proportions, expanded articulation, and added mechanical detail—without losing their identity. The result is a product that appeals not just to fans of the series, but also to collectors who appreciate mechanical artistry and premium build quality, making each release feel like a definitive tribute to the understated yet emotional legacy of the OVA.

MB Kampfer set contents

• Main body
• Exchangeable hand left/right x 3 types
• Exchangeable antenna
• Shotgun x 2
• Chain mine rack
• Giant Bazooka x 2
• Sturm Faust x 2
• Beam Saber handle x 2
• Beam Saber blade x 2
• Heat Hawk (ON/OFF) x 2 each
• Chain mine
• Joint parts set
• Original display stand set

MB Kampfer Details

• ABS & PVC & die-cast movable figure
• Total height: approx. 180mm
• Main product contents: 
• Publisher: BANDAI SPIRITS
• Price: 39,600 yen (tax included)
• Pre-orders will begin on Premium Bandai from 18:00 on Tuesday, October 3, 2023.
• Scheduled to ship in February 2024

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