MBF-M1A M1A Astray

The M1A Astray is a Mobile Suit Variation of the series Gundam SEED.

Combat and technological Informations
The fixed armament of the M1A Astray is the same as the one on the standard MBF-M1 Astray, which includes two head-mounted CIWS and two beam sabers. The only difference is the optional equipment which replaces the Type 71 beam rifle with an improved sniper beam rifle.

Compared to the standard M1 Astray, the M1A possesses extra vernier thrusters for enhanced space maneuverability, and has a better atmospheric seal.

Improved sniper beam rifle
For use in space, the M1A Astray is equipped with a Type 71-44 improved sniper beam rifle instead of the standard beam rifle. This sniper rifle is accurate up to an incredible 400 kilometers (comparable to a battleship's beam cannons). Thanks to this weapon, the suit is capable to shooting down enemy units over a long range.

History
In CE 71, the Orb Union created its first mass-produced mobile suit, the M1 Astray. As with other militaries, Orb also created several variants of their standard model, with one of them being the M1A Astray, which is an advanced, space-optimized version. Most M1A Astrays are operated by the Sakahu family, who owned its production facility, and used the suit to protect their space station Ame-no-Mihashira. One unit, piloted by Barry Ho, was assembled aboard the battleship Kusanagi and fought at Jachin Due.