Update:Translated manual can be found here.
If you think that a VF-1 is pretty, wait till you get some Fast Packs on it! Yamato Toys also recently released a clear version add-on for their VF-1 Super and Strike Packs.
The FAST pack equipped VF-1 first appeared in Episode 24 of the Macross TV series episode titled: Goodbye Girl.
In the episode Misa Hayase’s shuttle is attacked on its way to earth. Her escort, commanded by Max Jenius, were overwhelmed by the Zentradi Battle Pods. Captain Global has no choice but to launch their secret weapon, a FAST pack equipped Valkyrie. Hikaru Ichijo cuts the gap easily and arrives in time owing to the speed of his FAST pack equipped VF-1S. He lets loose a large amount of micro missiles to end the conflict quickly. Yep, you get more points with the girl too when you rescue them in a FAST pack equipped VF-1…hehehe
There are two variants of the FAST Pack in the Macross Universe. In the Macross TV series, the FAST Pack equipped VF-1 is referred to as a Super Valkyrie. The original variant doesn’t have the Cannon mounted on one of its boosters. In the Macross Do You Remember Love, the Cannon equipped VF-1 FAST pack is known as a Strike Valkyrie.
FAST packs increases a VF’s maneuverability and speed in space owing to the generous amount of Vernier thrusters and additional boosters it provides. It also boosts the VF’s range with the increased amount of propellant that can be stored in the packs. Lastly there is the added firepower with the increased amount of missile stores.
In the Macross Universe, The FAST pack is usually used only in space. Whenever a FAST pack outfitted VF tries to enter any place with an atmosphere (either natural or artificial) it first has to ditch its FAST pack. An example of this are the VF-1’s and VF-25’s. This is in contrast with the YF-19 and YF-21 of Macross Plus, who have shown that their FAST packs can be used in normal atmosphere during their epic battle scene without affecting the aerodynamics of their craft. Why the franchise decided to regress in this development of FAST Pack technology is something that we have to ask Macross Creator, Shoji Kawamori. Update: My apologies for this mistake and “sweeping” paragraph, the FAST packs of the VF-25’s can actually be used inside as atmospheric environment as seen in the television series, not sure if they can do it though in fighter mode, probably only in Gerwalk.
Typically a FAST pack has to be installed in the hanger, but the VF-25’s FAST packs in the Macross Frontier series has the unique capability of being parked in the orbit of a planet and re-worn without the need of installation equipment.
Other than the above mentioned uses, the FAST pack has also been known to be used as Missile Fodder. Conveniently being ditched at a swarm of enraged missiles in order to prolong ones life.
I think I’ve blabbered on long enough about the Macross FAST pack to the point that I’ve gone far away from the topic at hand, which is the review of the Yamato 1/60 Super and Strike Parts for the VF-1 that I bought at HLJ during their sale season. The item includes only the FAST packs, VF-1 is not included with the kit.
