Build Gundams Ch 29

Three months later, Ryuuichi embarked on a journey aboard the Albion, not an MS Mothership as previously stated, but a Pegasus-class Assault Landing Ship that served as the mobile command center. This particular Albion, designated number 00, held historical significance as the first of its kind to undergo a Minovsky Ultracompact Fusion Reactor retrofit, enhancing its energy weapon capabilities.

While Albion 00 was underway, Albion 01 had already entered official service. Albion 02 was undergoing rigorous testing, and construction of Albion 03 was underway. Escorting Albion 00 were eight newly constructed frigates and six equally new destroyers. The frigates, measuring 180 meters, accommodated six Mobile Suits each, prioritizing defensive weaponry. The destroyers, slightly larger at 220 meters, also housed six Mobile Suits and boasted long-range Beam Cannons alongside the latest Mega Particle Cannons.

Ryuuichi's destination was Colony Satellite 12 of the Philipp Republic, a prominent nation within District 6's Colony sphere. The primary purpose of the journey was to establish the seventh sub-base for the Antares Mercenary Group. Ryuuichi, accompanied by Commander Kenji Takeshi and several ace MS pilots, would preside over the opening ceremony.

Since founding his company over three years prior, Ryuuichi had dedicated himself to his work, rarely venturing far from his facilities.

In the command center, Ryuuichi sat in a chair that was not specially designed, but rather a standard-issue command chair. Ryuuichi discussed the journey with Captain Feikesi and Commander Kenji Takeshi.

Shortly after, a cook entered the command center, pushing a dining cart and distributing food. The meal consisted of a hamburger, fries, meatballs, and a glass of milk. An hour later, the cook returned to collect the empty plates.

"Ryuuichi, at our current speed, we will reach Colony Satellite 12 in approximately seven days," Captain Feikesi reported.

Ryuuichi glanced out at the expanse of space. While space lacked the distinction of day and night, Colony Satellites utilized environmental instruments to simulate day and night cycles. He checked the time, relying on a clock, as it was 8:30 PM.

"Commander Takeshi," Ryuuichi began, addressing Kenji, "besides the Antares Mercenary Group establishing its seventh sub-base, what investments do our subsidiaries have in the Philipp Republic?"

"We've invested in a food manufacturing plant, a water purification company, and a pastoral area. The food manufacturing plant is already operational. The others are projected to commence operations this month," Kenji responded.

"Good," Ryuuichi acknowledged, resting his hand on his chin. He knew that President Severine Laurent had secured asteroid mining sites in the Philipp Republic.

Skywing Armaments Manufacturing Company also maintained a subsidiary focused on energy resource acquisition. These asteroids contained various minerals, including energy stones. Some of these energy minerals could be utilized directly, while others required specialized extraction techniques. One of the contracted asteroid mining sites was dedicated to extracting these valuable energy minerals.

Kenji then addressed a security concern, "Ryuuichi, our anti-espionage department has discovered that numerous Colony nations have deployed spies within the Antares Mercenary Group, Skywing Armaments Manufacturing Company, and your other enterprises."

Ryuuichi was unsurprised, "It's obvious. These spies are attempting to steal our Gundam technology and other military advancements."

"That is correct, Ryuuichi. Our counterintelligence operations have yielded intelligence indicating that certain nations are actively investigating you. Their intention is to capture you, believing that you are the key to unlocking advanced military technology," Kenji stated.

"Heh," Ryuuichi scoffed. "Rather than stealing Gundam technology, they believe I am the most valuable asset. Capturing me would grant them access to the heart of our advanced military capabilities."

"Precisely, Ryuuichi. Any Colony nation that acquires your military technology could potentially dominate the Colony Sphere within a decade," Kenji affirmed.

"Leave the spies to the anti-espionage department. Is there anything else?" Ryuuichi asked.

"The performance of our Gundams has increased since the integration of the Minovsky Ultracompact Fusion Reactors, significantly enhancing the combat effectiveness of our Gundam Pilots. Additionally, the superconducting communication systems installed in our warships and MS have proven effective in disrupting enemy radar, search, and lock-on capabilities during escort missions, creating a significant tactical advantage," Kenji reported.

"Good," Ryuuichi said. "The ultimate goal is to deploy our technology on the battlefield. No matter how advanced something is, it must be practical and effective. Everything must undergo rigorous combat testing."

"Indeed, Ryuuichi. The technologies you've developed have consistently received positive feedback following field tests. They have dramatically improved the survival rates of our frontline personnel," Kenji stated.

Ryuuichi nodded.

Kenji continued, "However, please forgive my candor. I hope I do not overstep."

"Speak freely," Ryuuichi said.

"Sometimes, frontline personnel benefit more from equipment that they are proficient in using rather than the most advanced equipment. Familiarity and skill can significantly increase their chances of victory and survival."

Ryuuichi acknowledged Kenji's point. "You are right. If equipment is difficult to operate, its potential is wasted. Enhancing the victory and survival rates of our frontline personnel is paramount. I agree with you and will keep this in mind during future development and research," Ryuuichi stated. "Is there anything else to report?"

"Nothing further at this time," Kenji replied.

"I see. Then I will return to my quarters to rest," Ryuuichi said as he stood and exited the command center.

In his room, Ryuuichi retrieved his mobile device and reviewed Severine's report. Two Minovsky Ultracompact Fusion Reactors had been completed and were ready for integration into the Orchis weapon container system. Testing of the I-Field Generator shield was imminent, and Haruki Kozuki was designated as the pilot for the GP03 Dendrobium.

In the coming days, Haruki would pilot the GP03 Dendrobium and connect it to the Orchis weapon container system for a series of tests. Haruki and the other Gundam Pilots had undergone intensive training, enhancing their skills. The Gundam Pilots who previously struggled to control the Gundam GP04 (Gerbera) were now able to manage its speed.