X-9

From Macross Compendium

Ghost X-9

The unmanned combat aerial vehicle with the nickname "Ghost Bird", which the U.N. Spacy was further developing in the shadow of the next main variable fighter selection trail, "The Supernova Project". It is equipped with an autonomous-type artificial intelligence adapted from data obtained from the virtual idol Sharon Apple and demonstrates acceleration performance and combat ability exceeding manned aircraft. Since it performed with favorable results in simulated combat, it was designated unofficially as the next main fighter for the UN Forces with with plans to reveal to the public in 2040, following the conclusion of the 30th Anniversary Space War I Memorial Ceremony. It was manipulated by Sharon Apple who controlled the UN Command central functions including communication facilities, but 2 test aircraft descended to Earth (YF-19 and YF-21) and engaged in combat. It was shot down, receiving a ramming (suicide) attack from the YF-21, which released its limiter. Because dependence on artificial intelligence was reviewed after this case, adoption of the X-9 was canceled, but development of unmanned aerial combat vehicles was continued afterwords.

Armament

• Five laser guns
• High-maneuver missiles