While the mecha pilots from the Gundam series often take center stage, many female characters have also earned their time in the spotlight, whether for their fighting prowess or compelling backstories.
Throughout the various wars portrayed in the Gundam anime, these remarkable women have proven themselves as heroes in their own right, demonstrating that they are just as capable as their male counterparts on the battlefield.
Iconic female characters in the Gundam universe extend beyond being love interests for the protagonists. They take on roles such as ship captains, crew members, soldiers, and even Gundam pilots.
With Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch From Mercury introducing the first female lead in the franchise, it’s the perfect opportunity to shine a light on other exceptional women who have graced the Gundam anime over the years.
These characters are not mere sidekicks or damsels in distress; they are fierce warriors, skilled strategists, and multidimensional individuals who contribute significantly to the narratives they are a part of.
So, let’s take a moment to appreciate the badass ladies of the Gundam universe, who have repeatedly proven that they are just as capable, if not more so, than their male counterparts in the heat of battle and the face of adversity.
1. Sayla Mass (Mobile Suit Gundam)
Sayla Mass from Mobile Suit Gundam is one of the first significant female characters in the Gundam series, embodying competence in an era of war and conflict.
Known initially as Artesia Som Deikun from the Principality of Zeon, she is the younger sister of Char Aznable. Sayla was brought to the colony Side 7, where a battle led her to White Base. There, she eventually joined the Earth Federation as a communications officer.
In her role, Sayla guides pilots with her directions and stands up for what she believes in, challenging anyone who displays cowardice. Her bravery and assertiveness make her a memorable and influential character in the series.
2. Fa Yuiry (Zeta Gundam)
Fa Yuiry from Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam brings a refreshing presence amid the giant robots and war drama. As the loyal friend and neighbor of the main character, Kamille, Fa becomes a symbol of resilience when war disrupts their lives.
Though not originally a soldier, she adapts to her new reality aboard the resistance ship, even showing potential as a pilot. Fans admire her for her unwavering support of Kamille, her strength in the face of hardship, and the touch of normalcy she brings to the intense storyline.
3. Haman Karn (Zeta Gundam, Gundam ZZ)
Unlike other female characters in the Gundam series, Haman Karn from Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam and its sequel Gundam ZZ remains iconic for one reason: being one of the series’ scariest villains.
Haman is sincere in her belief that Earth needs reform, envisioning a world where Earthnoids have no place and should be saved by Spacenoids, especially with her at the helm. She possesses all the necessary skills for this mission.
Protagonist Judau Ashta senses an evil aura about Haman, which she constantly hides behind a cool, calm, and charismatic demeanor. However, deep down, Haman Karn is ruthless and merciless and will not hesitate to discard anyone to achieve her goals.
4. Roux Louka (Gundam ZZ)
It’s one thing to be recognized for her beauty, but it’s another to be equally lethal in skill—this combination makes Roux Louka from Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ an iconic anime character.
Everyone in the series, especially the boys, is immediately stunned by her appearance. Roux skillfully uses her femme fatale persona to her advantage, particularly in her role as an ace pilot.
Her piloting skills are remarkable, as she can control Kamille Bidan’s Zeta Gundam. This proves that Roux has what it takes to pilot a revolutionary mecha, standing on equal footing with Judau Ashta in the war between AEUG and Neo Zeon.
5. Christina MacKenzie (Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket)
Christina Mackenzie has a graceful appearance that can make her enemies doubt their piloting skills. Despite not being a Newtype, she has proven to be a highly skilled pilot, capable of defeating multiple enemies in a single hit. This exceptional ability is why she was chosen to pilot the Gundam RX-78NT-1 “Alex.”
6. Relena Darlian (Gundam Wing)
Although she initially appears as a damsel in distress, Relena Darlian from Mobile Suit Gundam Wing is one of the most formidable female characters in the Gundam series.
Originally known as Relena Peacecraft, her encounter with Gundam pilot Heero Yuy draws her into the war between Earth and the space colonies.
Despite the conflict, her unwavering commitment to peace allows her to use her legacy for the good of humanity. Throughout the series, Relena strengthens her authority over her heritage and leads the charge towards pacifism, reflecting her family’s dedication to peace.
Her kindness and vision for a better future have made her one of the most iconic characters in the Gundam series.
7. Lacus Clyne (Gundam SEED, Destiny)
When one thinks of Gundam, a pink-haired female protagonist often comes to mind, thanks to Mobile Suit Gundam SEED’s Lacus Clyne and its sequel SEED Destiny.
Initially, Lacus appears as a damsel in distress with a unique naivety that seems out of place during wartime. However, this meek nature hides her true persona: a staunch advocate for peace.
Originally an idol meant to motivate the ZAFT Squad, Lacus eventually uses her influence and heritage to help stop the war around her. She becomes a commander of the Clyne Faction and leads the Three Ships Alliance, convincing her boyfriend Kira Yamato and former fiancé Athrun Zala to join forces and end the First Alliance-SEED War.
Her influence is so significant that she maintains a neutral presence in the sequels, continually advocating for peace and unity.
10. Rain Mikamura (G Gundam)
While Domon Kasshu, the protagonist of Mobile Suit G Gundam, provides plenty of hot-blooded entertainment, it’s his assistant and companion, Rain Mikamura, who offers a crucial voice of reason when things get out of hand.
Originally studying to become a doctor, Rain returns to Neo Japan and becomes a mechanic and Domon’s assistant in his quest to win the Gundam Tournament. Her expertise in multiple fields makes Rain a versatile and invaluable team member.
In addition to her medical training, Rain’s familiarity with the Shining Gundam allows her to pilot it when needed, and she even gets her own Gundam, the Rising Gundam. Empathic and compassionate, Rain is determined and resourceful, capable of both negotiating and fighting her way through challenges.
Rain eventually pilots the Core Fighter, assisting Amuro in their battles against other Mobile Suits. Her multifaceted skills and unwavering support make her an indispensable character in the series.
9. Soma Peries/Marie Parfacy (Gundam 00)
In Mobile Suit Gundam 00, the threat posed by Celestial Beings and their Gundams prompts the world’s powers to find a solution. The Human Reform League responds by reactivating the Super Soldier Program to produce exceptional mecha pilots, with Soma Peries emerging as their top candidate.
Goal-oriented and tactical, Soma Peries can effectively pilot larger, slower mechas to compete with Allelujah Haptism and his incredibly fast Gundam Kyrios. However, it is later revealed that Soma is an alternate personality created by the stress of the Super Soldier Program. Her true identity, Marie Parfacy, is a person who profoundly desires peace.
When Marie’s memories resurface, Soma’s persona does not resist but chooses to coexist with her. This coexistence creates a perfect balance, making Soma/Marie a formidable warrior, especially when her loved ones are threatened.
10. Fumina Hoshino (Gundam Build Fighters Try)
In a world where Gunpla Battles inspire countless builders and pilots to create unique models, Fumina Hoshino from Gundam Build Fighters Try is a high school student whose caring nature and drive to succeed fuel her peers, Sekai Kamiki and Yuuma Kousaka.
While female characters in the Gundam series often stand behind skilled fighters like Sekai and talented builders like Yuuma, Fumina consistently surprises even the most elite opponents with her clever strategies.
Throughout the series, Fumina devises unique methods to leverage her team’s strengths in battle. Her trademark Winning Gundam, initially perceived as just a Core Booster, can transform into an SD Gundam, effectively giving her two machines in one.
The upgraded SD form, Star Winning Gundam, can transform into a full-sized real type. Additionally, she ensures the team’s Gundam components are interchangeable, allowing one machine to use another’s parts, maximizing their adaptability and effectiveness in battle.
