Taurus
TAG Missile Rack x 1: The target acquisition/guidance missile is a non-lethal projectile, on its own. This medium range missile has a completely magnetized and streamline surface, allowing it to attach to targets without any noticeable effect. When a target is "it," the missile automatically relays position and movement data that gives other units an incredibly accurate weapons lock, even if the tagged unit is out of direct sight. Useful when the Gundam's allies have heavy artillery deployed, the TAG is nearly impossible to shake off without either severing the point where it is attached or getting a full technical crew to pry it loose. Taurus' shoulder rack contains fifteen of these small, unassuming warheads.
90mm Custom Machine Gun x 1: An assault weapon built from a Grand Cross carbine rifle. A lighter caliber weapon than the older rifle, it has a higher cycling rate, and can send out ten round bursts rather than six. It includes a laser-guided sight for improved target acquisition in large, open environments, such as space. Ninety rounds are stored in a large clip, and the pilot has the option of carrying at least one spare. As an added bonus, a single, high explosive multi-warhead can be mounted beneath the barrel, giving an added punch to make up for he loss of the original missile rack.
Beam Sabre x 2: A weaker variation of the beam sword, this weapon also creates a stable energy blade that is useful in close combat. More powerful than common heat weapons and other alloy blades or clubs, it has the capacity to usher in a new standard in close range armaments. It is also quite easy to replace and repair, though it does drain more energy from the mobile suit's electrical battery. When not in use, both of these weapons are mounted over the Gundam's shoulders.
The realities of the United Alliance's Zodiac G project have slowly come to light. Six mobile suits, based upon the unfinished prototype of the defunct Englestein project of CC 086, were created by the United Alliance Armed Forces to wreck havoc upon the colony rebellion of the Grand Cross. Tailored for high performance in specialized fields, these machines each feature advanced weapons, equipment, and, most important of all, the incredible Paragon computer system. "Shackled" deep within the databases of each Zodiac G is a malevolently-installed human consciousness that has been torturously programmed to obliterate the Grand Cross, but is far too traumatized to actually do so.
Like all of the Zodiac G units, the Taurus is constructed of G-Metal, a powerful new artificial element developed by the Alliance. Stronger than titanium, a typical plate of it is able to withstand at least 10% more damage. It is also lighter, allowing engineers to fit it over a mobile suit frame more easily and in greater proportions. Internal skeletons and myomer muscles composed of G-Metal are also stronger, with higher stress tolerances. Most hand held, human-sized weapons and explosives cannot scratch it. In addition, this alloy can also gain much higher defensive properties after an electrical charge has run through it, prompting a phase shifting effect that leaves the suit nearly invulnerable to all projectiles. However, the effect has virtually no effect on beam weapons, and has a habit of rapidly draining the battery.
The Taurus takes full advantage of G-Metal's enhanced durability, carrying several heavy layers of over its strengthened frame. Categorized as a defensive unit, it proves itself as sturdy as its namesake. It does, however, have lower physical strength than the other Gundams, and is less reactive at closer ranges than it should be. Both are a consequence of its heavy body, though they are compensated for with a good mix of weaponry. Originally, the Taurus seemed like a junior version of the Aries, hinting that they may have had the same designers. However, refits by engineer Pierre Lifate, of the Ark Nova militia, have resulted in a few alterations to the original layout. On an additional note, the Gundam's heavy vernier assembly allows it limited atmospheric flight and hovering, and increases its maneuverability in space. It is worth noting that, during the reconstruction process, Lifate inadvertently released one of the "shackle" programs binding Taurus' Newtype "soul," Isis, giving it an awareness of what was transpiring around it.
Note - The Taurus was eventually destroyed in the Antarctic, after many hit-and-run bouts against the Grand Cross, in a duel with the Gundam Cancer. Most of its remains were salvaged and either used in the restoration of the Gundam Virgo, or handed back over to the United Alliance Armed Forces.