REVIEW HG 1/144 MS-06F Zaku II F Type Chubs & Kale + MS-06 Zaku II [Unidentified Type] Solari Custom Parts Set [RFV], Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai Gunpla HG 1/144 MS-06F Zaku II F Type Chubs & Kale + MS-06 Zaku II [Unidentified Type] Solari Custom Parts Set from Netflix Series Mobile Suit Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance.

P-Bandai Gunpla HG 1/144 MS-06F Zaku II F Type Chubs & Kale + MS-06 Zaku II [Unidentified Type] Solari Custom Parts Set Review

Following the previously introduced Ruchon unit, Premium Bandai has now released the remaining members of the Red Wolf team—HG 1/144 Zaku II F Type Chubs & Kale. Additionally, this kit includes parts to convert the Solari unit into an Unidentified Zaku II. Priced at 6,050 yen, this is a Premium Bandai exclusive with a monochrome package. However, the manual comes with a color cover and includes brief pilot introductions. This review focuses on the Chubs and Kale units.

Included Accessories

Both units share the following weapons and accessories:

Zaku Machine Gun
Zaku Bazooka
Heat Hawk
Right-hand weapon grip
Left open hand
Weapon connection joint
Stand joint

Additionally, the Kale unit, a long-range support mobile suit, comes with a long rifle.

Decals and Customization

Water-slide decals are included, allowing for intricate details like leg coatings and various markings. The mono-eye is also covered with a decal. However, some color separation is not fully achieved through decals alone, requiring additional painting.

From "Mobile Suit Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance," the Chubs and Kale Zaku II F units join the previously released Ruchon and Solari models to complete the Red Wolf team. The set also includes conversion parts for the Unidentified Zaku II Solari unit, but this review focuses on Chubs and Kale.

Chubs Unit (Red Wolf Bravo): Features a dark green molded color with a newly designed, sharp, conical spiked shoulder armor.

Kale Unit (Red Wolf Delta): Functions as a support unit and retains the standard Zaku II body, distinguished by its pale green color and equipped with a long rifle.

Structural Features

Both models follow the traditional HG Zaku II F Type structure, with minor modifications:

Chubs Unit: Features new shoulder armor with aggressive design elements.
Kale Unit: Shares its structure with the Ruchon unit, with no additional new parts.
Joints: Standard KPS construction, offering good articulation.

Color and Painting Requirements

Certain areas require painting due to limited color separation:

Chubs Unit: Helmet (red), waist armor (black)
Kale Unit: Hand armor (red), thighs (solid green)

Head and Body Features

The head sculpt retains the classic Zaku silhouette with detailed mono-eye rail work. Decals are used for the mono-eye. The torso follows the standard Zaku II F design but with different color molding. The waist allows for flexible movement, and the skirt armor is well-proportioned.

The shoulder spike armor (Chubs Unit) is a unique new design with additional small spikes. The shield remains unchanged apart from color differences and features claw-like details and grenade storage.

Arm and Leg Features

Arms: Thick, robust build with visible seam lines on the forearms. The left hand is an open palm for posing. Legs: Standard Zaku II F Type pipe structures with Chubs Unit featuring a missile pod on the left leg.

Foot Design: Hollow areas underneath the feet. Articulation: Despite its bulky build, the kit maintains good articulation. Kneeling poses are achievable, though ground contact is standard.

Weapons and Equipment

Shared Weapons

Zaku Machine Gun: Slim barrel, small scope, and articulated foregrip.
Zaku Bazooka: Molded in different green shades, matching the Ruchon unit. Grips and scope are adjustable.
Heat Hawk: One-piece molded part, requiring paint for blade details.

Unique Weapons

Chubs Unit: Despite its spiked armor, the spikes are intended for intimidation rather than melee combat.
Kale Unit Long Rifle: A highly detailed upgrade of the Origin Zaku Anti-Ship Rifle, requiring some paint for accuracy.

Display and Comparisons

When displayed alongside the Ruchon and Solari units, the four Zaku units create an impressive team presence.
Color Variations: The different green hues distinguish each unit effectively.
Stand Compatibility: Attaches via a sliding joint under the rear skirt, ensuring a secure fit.
Comparison with HG Gundam EX: The contrast between the massive Zaku units and the slim Gundam EX highlights their differing design philosophies.

Unidentified Zaku II Solari Custom Parts Set Review

This part of the kit provides additional parts to convert the HG Zaku II F Type Solari Unit into an Unidentified Type Zaku II.

Required Tools

Plastic model glue or instant adhesive
Clippers and mesh-cutting scissors

Additional Parts & Assembly

Includes pre-shaped and flexible mesh sheets for shoulder netting.
Tracks and missile pods require glue for attachment.
Protective pipe frame for the mono-eye enhances the rugged battlefield look.

Design Features

Reinforced Shield: Double-layered for beam weapon resistance.
Exposed Mechanics: Left thigh and left forearm feature open mechanical details (requires painting).
Added Cables & Armor: Right shoulder gets a cable attachment, left forearm exposes internal mechanics, and foot armor gains additional plating.
Missile Pods: Attached to both arms and legs (glue required).

Comparison with Standard Solari Zaku II

Increased Detail Density: The addition of tracks and missile pods significantly enhances the rugged battlefield look. Mobility Considerations: While articulation remains mostly unchanged, care is needed when handling due to fragile attached parts.

Display and Final Thoughts

Compared with Ruchon’s Unidentified Zaku II: Both emphasize battlefield modifications, but the Solari version is easier to assemble with fewer complex modifications.

Mesh Shoulder Netting: User-friendly and doesn’t fray, making it a convenient addition.

Potential Future Kits: The completion of the Red Wolf team and Unidentified Zaku units raises hopes for Zaku Tanks, GM units, and other Requiem for Vengeance designs.

Summary

The Premium Bandai HG 1/144 Zaku II F Type Chubs & Kale + Unidentified Zaku II Solari Custom Parts Set successfully expands the Red Wolf team while offering a highly detailed custom option for the Unidentified Zaku II Solari.

Pros:

Complete Red Wolf team
Unique shoulder armor (Chubs Unit)
Highly detailed long rifle (Kale Unit)
Additional parts for battlefield customization (Solari Unit)
Impressive display presence

Cons:

Requires additional painting for color accuracy
Some parts need glue, making them more fragile
No full kit for Unidentified Zaku II Solari (requires separate purchase)

Overall, this kit is an excellent addition for fans of Requiem for Vengeance, Zaku collectors, and builders looking for a detailed customization challenge. If you already own the Solari unit, the included conversion parts make this set even more valuable!