YFX-M56S Core Splendor

The Core Splendor is a support fighter in the series Gundam SEED Destiny.

Combat Abilities
Since the Core Splendor is only a support craft for the actual ZGMF-X56S Impulse it only features light armament, which can nevertheless cause moderate damage. Its fixed armament consists of two MMI-GAU19 20 mm machineguns, which are mounted on the front part of the fighter, while two additional QF908 6-tube anti-air missile launchers are mounted underneath the wings. These launchers are equipped with several AGM33 "Ladybird" guided missiles and when the Core Splendor begins its docking procedure, the launchers detach and return to the Minerva.

History
When ZAFT created the Impulse, they built the suit as a modular unit, capable of splitting into three different modules. The cockpit of the suit was located in the Core Splendor, a support craft which could operate on its own. This Core Splendor system was first tested on the ZGMF-X101S ZAKU Splendor, then adapted to the Impulse's design. The new battleship Minerva was also outfitted with a unique catapult to launch the Core Splendor as well as the other modules of the Impulse.

The Core Splendor saw its first combat debut on October 2, CE 73, when the Impulse was forced to fight three other Gundams which were stolen from ZAFT's colony Armory One. The fighter was used by Shinn Asuka to briefly attack the ZGMF-X24S Chaos before combining with the other modules to form the Impulse. Some times later, the Core Splendor was used in the Gulnahan Ravine to fly through a cave system to secretly attack an Earth Alliance base stationed there. When Shinn switched to the more powerful ZGMF-X42S Destiny, the Core Splendor was handed down to Lunamaria Hawke.