MSZ-006D Zeta Plus D

The MSZ-006D Zeta Plus D is an experimental mobile suit derived from the baseline design of the MSZ-006A1's Waverider mode. This unit featured new equipment that included extra fins, upgraded engines and stronger weaponry, and was designed to be a more of a dedicated attack aircraft. It appears in the photo-novel Gundam Sentinel.

Technology & Combat Characteristics
As the MSZ-006A1 Zeta Plus was designed for long-range attack missions, its waverider form was intended mainly for long-distance travel rather than aerial combat, as a result, its versatility and reliability as a combat aircraft was inferior to that of conventional fighter aircraft. This D type was designed to follow the same concept, however, with an aim to improve its thrust-to-weight ratio and handling characteristics. The Z Plus D not only incorporates a pair of new nuclear thermal turbofan engines, It was fitted with horizontal and vertical fins on its nose and tail stabilator, giving better reliability and maneuverability. The flight sub unit (or "shield") incorporates an engine equipped with thrust vectoring for takeoff and landing purposes. The D type carries improved thigh-mounted beam cannons, and its wing binders have hardpoints for missiles and drop tanks.

With the exception of the E type, this is the most expensive machine of the Zeta Plus series, and it boasts high performance as both a mobile suit and a fighter aircraft. This D type is later adopted by the regular Federation Forces and deployed in the first Neo Zeon conflict, and it is said that a modified version is later developed for use in space.