REVIEW 1/144 RX-78F00/E Gundam [ EX-001 Glass Feather Equipment ], Bandai

This is review of Bandai Limited Gunpla plastic model 1/144 RX-78F00/E Gundam [ EX-001 GLRSS Feather Unit ] from EXPO2025 Mobile Suit Gundam Next Future Pavilion.

EXPO2025 Bandai Limited Gunpla plastic model 1/144 RX-78F00/E Gundam [ EX-001 GLRSS Feather Unit ] Review

The RX-78F00/E Gundam is a new variation of the RX-78F00, now equipped with the EX-001 "Glass Feathers" system, and has been released as a 1/144 scale model kit. Priced at ¥3,960, this kit combines detailed mechanical design with unique visual enhancements.

Included Components

The kit comes with a wide array of parts:

Glass Feathers armor set (shoulders, waist, legs)
Beam welding gun and deployment parts
Stand joint and solar panel joint
Optional vernier thrusters and shoulder armor
Standard weapons: beam rifle, shield, two beam sabers (no blades), open palms, and trigger hands

A selection of marking stickers and foil stickers, including sensor highlights, a V-fin for the waist, and inner solar panel reflections

Base Model Overview

The core of the model is based on the moving life-size Gundam from Yokohama, previously released as a kit. While the proportions and mechanical details are largely unchanged, some subtle updates distinguish this version. The model’s structure is comparable to the High Grade (HG) line, offering a balance of detail and ease of assembly.

The plastic colors feature subtle gradations, mimicking the real-life Gundam's intricate paint scheme. However, for complete accuracy, additional painting is recommended—especially for the armor’s shaded areas.

Head and Torso Details

The head unit maintains the original sharp facial features but with softened cheek angles. The sensor fin on the back of the head has been removed. Vulcan cannons and cheek vents require additional paint for full accuracy. The torso also sees changes—such as the removal of collar sensors—and includes enhanced mold detailing and an elongated abdominal section.

The twin-eye piece is a clear part, with stickers providing color separation. While the sticker application is fine at a distance, painting may offer a cleaner result up close.

Backpack and Limb Construction

The model features a standard dual-port backpack mount. By swapping in the large vernier thrusters, the unit can transform for Glass Feathers mode. The arms retain the unique mechanical articulation inspired by the real moving Gundam, with newly designed forearm details and open hand parts included.

The legs keep their original frame-revealing design and come with detailed panel lines. Additional armor for the Glass Feathers mode attaches externally without replacing the base parts.

Glass Feathers Equipment

To transform into the RX-78F00/E configuration, replace the shoulder and front waist armor and attach extra leg panels. The Glass Feathers unit itself attaches to the backpack via a 3mm port. According to official documentation, this setup represents a long-term, self-sustaining mobile suit designed to operate in space using renewable energy.

This mode includes solar panel wings with large, translucent surfaces that reflect light vividly thanks to the included silver foil stickers. Despite the visual weight of the equipment, the unit remains stable thanks to support elements like the accumulator.

Solar Panel and Wing Details

The solar panels (Glass Feathers) feature:

Hinged and rotatable wings
Transparent parts with fine interior detailing
Fluorescent plastic for light-reactive effects
Internal thrusters and accumulators with movable joints
Stand connectors for independent display
Articulated manipulator arms to support or hold equipment

While highly poseable, care should be taken due to the size and weight of the wings, as they may occasionally detach from the backpack. Additionally, only four stand joints are provided, so not all solar panel units can be floated simultaneously without additional sets.

Weapon Compatibility

All standard weapons from the RX-78F00 are included. The beam rifle has a separate scope and muzzle, and can be wielded with both hands thanks to a movable sub-grip. The shield attaches to the forearm via a joint and features a detailed design consistent with the updated armor aesthetics. Beam saber handles are included, though the blades must be sourced from other kits.

The beam welding gun can also be mounted on the arm and displayed in open or closed configuration via part replacement.

Display and Customization

The kit also includes parts to replicate the RX-78F00/E’s appearance from Expo 2025 promotional footage, including alternate shoulder armor and a unique open hand for dynamic poses.

When compared to other Gundam kits like the HGUC or the RG (Ver. 1.0) version inspired by the Yokohama statue, this model stands out with its use of translucent parts, high visual impact, and elaborate armor configurations. Its expanded width, due to the Glass Feathers, offers a striking silhouette not typically seen in other Gundam designs.

Summary

The 1/144 RX-78F00/E Gundam (EX-001 Glass Feathers Equipped) delivers an impressive combination of futuristic design and functional articulation. Based on the RX-78F00 statue from Yokohama and featured in new Expo 2025 footage, this kit includes advanced solar panel units and striking armor extensions. While full color accuracy requires significant painting effort, the model shines both as a display piece and as a dynamic build with excellent play and customization value.