Instruction

Originally commissioned only for special operations, the GBP-1S nonetheless saw first operational deployment in space for a routine patrol on October 2009. Then Second Lieutenant Hikaru Ichijo launched from CVS-101 Prometheus in a GBP-1S equipped VF-1J Valkyrie on a deep space reconnaissance mission to determine possible Zentradi incursion. Very little useful information on performance was gained from the deployment of the GBP-1S during Hikaru's mission, mostly due to poor tactical maneuvering. Although flight records do indicate the GBP-1S functioned as designed, both offensively and defensively, the effectiveness of the unit was left in question. Some UNS analysts critical of the October 2009 deployment suggest the poorly conceived near-simultaneous launch of the full GBP-1S ordnance allowed the enemy to intercept a few initial missiles resulting in the sequential, premature detonation of most the munitions before they were able to impact. These same analysts also note the successful defensive performance of the GBP-1S, resulting in the initial counter of several direct hits from enemy fire before the system was ejected from Lt. Ichijo's VF-1J.

Despite the less than ideal initial deployment of the GBP-1S, the system was not abandoned and further designs continue to find use in successive variable fighters, most notably the Protect Armor system found on the VF-11 Thunderbolt.

Note:

The VF-1J is parked in Fighter mode and will need to transform into Battroid mode to look normal.
AG-5 to Eject Armor