Variable Fighter Master File VF-1 Valkyrie Vol. 1

[Roy Focker]

So the VF-1N is the VF-1B or VF-1+ from VF-X Game series.

[Gubaba]

It's an updated A-type with the FF-2008 engine. In 2019, valks from Blocks 9 to 10 were modified into this variant. Outwardly, the N variant resembles the A-type. The same Block 9-10 valks' J and S-types were given the same engine upgrades and are later called J+ and S+ types. In other words, the VF-1N is just an updated variable fighter.

I've simplified the explanation from the book's text just FYI.

I wonder if the "N" has any connection to the SDFN series of SDF-1 replicas...

(Yes, they mentioned the SDFN-04 quite a while back in Macross Chronicle, and recently mentioned it again...nowhere do they say what the "N" stands for. )

[Project Phoenix]

Gubaba: I'm tempted to say the "N" stands for New or Neo but that's just my deduction given that the valks were given "new" engines.

Roy Focker: I am guessing that as well given Block 17 was the final production type which mounts the FF-2008 engines.

Keep in mind also the various colony fleets and worlds also produced their own licensed VF-1s. The Block and variant type produced outside the Solar System are unknown as this time. What we do know from the book is that 2013 is the final year the VF-1s were being produced in any number. By then, the VF-4 would have been the mainstay of the U.N. Spacy.

Side Note: SDF-3 is actually Virlithwai's flagship.

[Gubaba]

Gubaba: I'm tempted to say the "N" stands for New or Neo but that's just my deduction given that the valks were given "new" engines.

That sounds reasonable.

Side Note: SDF-3 is actually Virlithwai's flagship.

I loved the insignias and colors on those Valks. There's something so perverse and yet so wonderful about seeing Zentradi writing on a green Valk...

[Project Phoenix]

I loved the insignias and colors on those Valks. There's something so perverse and yet so wonderful about seeing Zentradi writing on a green Valk...

Me too. They even explained where they were stationed. Only the Zentradi squadron's name is not English and therefore made no sense to me.

What the book excited me the most was the history of the VF-0. There was some interesting stories behind it as well.

[Gubaba]

Me too. They even explained where they were stationed. Only the Zentradi squadron's name is not English and therefore made no sense to me.

What the book excited me the most was the history of the VF-0. There was some interesting stories behind it as well.

How much of it have you actually read? I keep *thinking* about reading it, but it's so technical that I know each page will take several hours of kanji searches, and...I guess I don't really have to know quite that badly.

[Project Phoenix]

The book reads like one of the Squadron books or a tech manual so I was able to discern quite a bit. It is a heavy read if you are into the actual nuts and bolts of the VF-1. I pick and choose sections for reading to be honest. I have not finished reading the entire book but I could understand quite a bit of it. My Japanese is rusty and that slowed me down quite a bit. I have not read the interview near the end of the book though. But from what I glanced, it is an interview of a veteran of Space War I and his thoughts flying the VF-1.

Anyone need help in understanding sections of the book, I'm more than happy to help. Just don't expect a perfect translation.

[anime52k8]

Anyone need help in understanding sections of the book, I'm more than happy to help. Just don't expect a perfect translation.

the section on the various block numbers would be nice seriously though any info you feel like sharing would be greatly appreciated.

as a random thought, does anyone else think we'll be seeing more of these books? I can't read anything in the book but just going by the title and various captions, it seems like a volume two covering the history of the VF-1 in space could be forthcoming.

I'd also love to see more of these master file books covering other VF's.

[Gubaba]

The book reads like one of the Squadron books or a tech manual so I was able to discern quite a bit. It is a heavy read if you are into the actual nuts and bolts of the VF-1. I pick and choose sections for reading to be honest. I have not finished reading the entire book but I could understand quite a bit of it. My Japanese is rusty and that slowed me down quite a bit. I have not read the interview near the end of the book though. But from what I glanced, it is an interview of a veteran of Space War I and his thoughts flying the VF-1.

Anyone need help in understanding sections of the book, I'm more than happy to help. Just don't expect a perfect translation.

I salute your skill. The technical stuff is what my nightmares are made of. I spent WEEKS on that damn VF-25S Macross Chronicle page, and there are still a bunch of things I'm unsure about in it...

as a random thought, does anyone else think we'll be seeing more of these books? I can't read anything in the book but just going by the title and various captions, it seems like a volume two covering the history of the VF-1 in space could be forthcoming.

I'd also love to see more of these master file books covering other VF's.

I'd like to see more, too. I imagine that if the book's successful, we'll probably see others. Probably not about the VF-1, though.

[Roy Focker]

How some translation about the VF-1 Squadron 2009 to 2014 Section.

I think it is cool that they list the number of squadrons part ship or base but the numbers seem to low compared to the numbers of VF produced per block.

For example I think they list 22 Squadrons for 2009. I think over 1300 VF-1 were made by that point.

What happen to those more simple alphabet above the Kanji that you use to see? It was so more easier to translate them when give those hints. I have a kanji dictionary but these got those words in tiny font. I need this book in that SPECIAL BIG FONT for blind old folks.

[sketchley]

I think it is cool that they list the number of squadrons part ship or base but the numbers seem to low compared to the numbers of VF produced per block.

For example I think they list 22 Squadrons for 2009. I think over 1300 VF-1 were made by that point.

Perhaps after 2009 there are more, but as 2009 is the launch year of the SDF-1... I've translated (in another publication on the VF-1) that by the time the SDF-1 left, there were only enough VF-1 to equip the SDF-1 to serve as escort. I think it'd be safe to conclude that 2009 is a transitional year that VF-1 production geared up from zero to max production, so there may be a surplus of VFs and a lack of squadrons at that point.

What happen to those more simple alphabet above the Kanji that you use to see? It was so more easier to translate them when give those hints. I have a kanji dictionary but these got those words in tiny font. I need this book in that SPECIAL BIG FONT for blind old folks.

You mean furigana? That's only for kids books. Adults and high school aged kids should be able to read all of the kanji in this type of publication.

[Project Phoenix]

I am working on the Block numbers section. Gimme a few hours and it'll be posted here. I can work on the squadron listing as well. Those are easy.

[Project Phoenix]

Here ya go. I apologize if mistranslates anything as I am doing this on the fly.

Block 1:

The first mass produced VF-1A equipped with Shinnakasu Heavy Industries, P&H and Royce's FF2001A-0 Thermonuclear Turbine Engine was unveiled in a ceremony at Canada's UN Forces HQ in Nov. 7 2008. The first unit was painted in gloss white with blue and gold striping as well as a red valkyrie figure painted on the tail. On this day, the machine was officially named Variable Fighter-1 (VF-1) "Valkyrie". The unit's demonstration flight was performed by Major Roy Focker which later will become Focker's assigned machine. This machine was later powered up by having its engine upgraded to a FF-2001D and modified into the S type.

Block 2:

3 VF-1A of this Block was completed at the same time as the Block 1. Outwardly and structurally it is similar to the Block 1. Once they are adopted for use, the three were sent to the Industrial Station on Lunar Orbit's L-5 point in February to test the VF's Outer Atmospheric Booster System. One of the units was sent to England's DeHaviland Co. to be license build and was returned 2 months later and assigned to CVS-101 Prometheus.

Block 3:

Block 3 consists of the two-seater D type, J type and S type and were produced from Shinnakasu's factory in Japan as production test types. All 3 units were ferried to UN Forces HQ in Canada to be used in various data gathering purpose.

Block 4:

While the D, J and S types were being produced by Shinnakasu, production of the A and G type were being handled by Stonewell Bellcom and Centinental with an estimation of 180 VF-1s entering service by January 2009. 12 of the Block 4 run will be the G type for development of the VE-1 as well as to complete the Outer Atmospheric Booster System's development. The D type is mainly used for pilot transitional training while the A, J, S and G types were assigned to Alaska base, the SDF-1 Macross and CVS-101 Prometheus.

Block 5:

Similar in design with the Block 5 with an approximate production run of 250 units. (Something about increased production efficiency.) This Block includes the 30 VF-1A units produced by DeHaviland. Half of the completed machines were sent to space and assigned to the ARMD-1 and 2.

Block 6:

L-5's Industrial Station produced the Block 6 VE-1 Elintseeker and VT-1 Ostrich. The units were produced along with the Outer Atmospheric Booster Systems. This Block introduces new cockpit layout as well as several changes to the VFs. The engine is still the FF-2001D. This Block run emphasis on outer atmospheric operations and this was seen in the design shift.

Block 7:

Using the new cockpit layout as the Block 6, Block 7 units also gains an update on the avionics. Counter-verniers and sensors in the nose were changed as well. The Block 7 was produced by factories in L-5 and the Apollo factory on the lunar surface in a rush to deliver 600 units. By late October 2009, the produced units were assigned to the 6 ARMD class space carriers. At the same time, both the L-5 and Apollo factories began mass producing the Outer Atmospheric Booster Systems (aka FAST packs, I presume) along with changes to the avionics in order to use the system. Initially, UN Forces called for a total of 1000 VF-1s to be delivered with the current Block being the final production run. After the incident of February 2009 the number was increased to 1030 units (includes Block 1~3 and Block 6 machine) from the 800 VF-1s in service by February 2009.

Block 8:

Essentially the same type as the Block 7, the Block 8 was rushed into production but due to delays into resource allocation, their production numbers were limited. Until production facilities on the surface were destroyed, 180 were produced within 3 and half months once Space War I broke out. Production of VF-1s stopped at this point. Of the 180 that was in service, about half were destroyed.

Block 9~12:

8 months after Space War I ended, factories in L-5 and the Apollo lunar base began reproducing the VF. Based on the previously established standards, the new VF-1s were produced along with some redesigned and upgraded avionics. Externally these new Block runs resemble Block 4~8 VFs. However, the vertical stabilizers and ventral fins were reinforced while the FCS were updated along with increasing additional hard points on the wings. 3380 units were produced with the Block 12 having the least number produced.

Block 13~16:

Changes to these Blocks include the dorsal antenna being modified into a flat panel type. Externally it is no different from any other produced Blocks except for some minor changes (the diagram shows miniaturization of the antennas, different fuselage panels, modified panel lines and single-piece ventral fins). These Blocks uses the same FF-2008 engines as the Block 9~12. The 5000th VF-1 produced was a Block 13. The commemorative unit was painted in special markings and went on a memorial flight around Macross City and Apollo factory in May 2013.

Block 17:

The VF-1's final production lot was the Block 17. It is the same standard as the Block 13~16 units. Additional IR sensors in the nose were installed but details are unknown.

I hope this helps. It's not perfect but at least you'll get an idea what's going on.

Edited August 30, 2009 by Project Phoenix

[Roy Focker]

That Block Information help some.

I was wondering why they listed Skull One as a Block 1 when the VF-1S wasn't produced till later. Now of course I wonder where is it included in the VF-1 totals. Is it the 31st VF-1S or still one of the 5093 VF1A?

You mean furigana? That's only for kids books. Adults and high school aged kids should be able to read all of the kanji in this type of publication.

Kids book is about equal to my read comprehension in Japanese (and English ).

[BlueMax]

Thanks Project Phoenix! looking forward to more translations from you!

[Vi-RS]

Got my copy from Kinokuniya in the mail. Thanks for the tips.

[Nied]

That Block Information help some.

I was wondering why they listed Skull One as a Block 1 when the VF-1S wasn't produced till later. Now of course I wonder where is it included in the VF-1 totals. Is it the 31st VF-1S or still one of the 5093 VF1A?

Gives new credence to my remanufacture theory.

It's interesting that they list block 6 production starting in 2009 rather than later. I had always assumed that those models went into production after the events shown in the TV show (to explain their absence). I gotta say they're explanation works pretty well too (most of the Block 6 and later models were assigned to ARMD platforms and other space installations, far away from the Macross's airgroup which was the focus of the show).

[Project Phoenix]

Roy Focker: Skull One is counted under the 5093 VF-1As produced even though it was later converted into an S type. You are right, S types were only produced in Block 3 runs onwards and even then they are rare with about 30 produced. Roy's custom VF was a unique machine since it was not build as an S type from the ground up. His VF is commonly known as "Roy Focker Special".

Just a quick note here: the book lists Block 1~6 as early types and everything after that as late types. Following the final battle against Bodolzer's main fleet in February 2010, the only surviving VF-1 squadrons were the ones on board the Macross, ARMD carriers, Moon base and the L-5 station. Everyone else was annihilated.

I am glad you guys appreciate it. Please let me know if you need something explained and I'll try my best to help out.

Edited August 31, 2009 by Project Phoenix

[Knight26]

Love the translations, how long before someone translates the whole thing?

[papabear]

I've been sitting on the fence about getting the book... if there are any copies left at Kinokuniya in a couple of weeks maybe I'll pick one up.

[Roy Focker]

I think the GU-11 now has a lower Sperm Count.

Prior to the printing of these book sources listed the GU-11 has having 200 Rounds.

Page #44 shows a picture of a VF-1 with all of its missiles and ammo out on display. Picture shows two Gun Pods & 360 Rounds of ammo. 180 for each gun. On page #53 they show the internal workings of the GU-11. See "01" I see 180.

[Mr March]

Weird. That's a 180 from what's been reprinted all these years

Seriously though, I wonder why the change. Not that 20 rounds is all that important, but it's a rather odd change. Perhaps the 200 rounds figure is not as widely known/published as we think, in which case the 180 round count is an arbitrary attempt to embellish due to a lack of knowledge about the old 200 round figure.

Edited September 3, 2009 by Mr March

[azrael]

Weird. That's a 180 from what's been reprinted all these years

Seriously though, I wonder why the change. Not that 20 rounds is all that important, but it's a rather odd change. Perhaps the 200 rounds figure is not as widely known/published as we think, in which case the 180 round count is an arbitrary attempt to embellish due to a lack of knowledge about the old 200 round figure.

Actually, it first showed up in Chronicle #1. Strangely though, I haven't seen it reprinted in the many other VF-1 entries.

[Mr March]

Could be just a typo then or honest mistake.

[Roy Focker]

Master file must have went with that mistake then.

[azrael]

I didn't say if it was or wasn't a mistake/typo only that I have only seen it in 2 spots, in this book and in Chronicle #1. In all the recent documentation, those are the only 2 places I've seen it.

[Graham]

One thing that I don't think anybody has commented on so far, is that under the slip band on the cover, it says in English:

This book edited about the history of the "VF-1 VALKYRIE" at stratosphere only. 2020 MBS Publishing Inc.

The bit that says "stratosphere only", gives me hope that we will see a second volume on the VF-1 for space use.

Graham

[Knight26]

That was my biggest gripe, minimal data on the exo-atmospheric FAST packs and equipment, as well as the VT-1 and VE-1.

[sketchley]

One thing that I don't think anybody has commented on so far, is that under the slip band on the cover, it says in English:

The bit that says "stratosphere only", gives me hope that we will see a second volume on the VF-1 for space use.

Graham

Well, it does say "volume 1", doesn't it?

[CF18]

Finally in stock in our regular stores...

http://www.hlj.com/product/SOF35182

http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10084551

[hevangel2]

I just got my copy today! Wow! It's really heavy reading. I regret I didn't learn my Japanese well back in university.

Is there any translation?

[Roy Focker]

Not yet but I'm sure if there is small paragraph that you really got to know about someone here would tell you the gist of it.

[Graham]

That was my biggest gripe, minimal data on the exo-atmospheric FAST packs and equipment, as well as the VT-1 and VE-1.

Vol. 2 should cover all that, if they go ahead with it.

Graham

[sketchley]

Does anyone know exactly how canon this publication is? I'm noticing a lot of little details that are "significantly different" from other published sources.

For example:

Pg 079-080: the VF-1 is indicated as having thermonuclear turbine engines that go from 0 to Mach 2.5, which change to thermonuclear ramjet engines that go from Mach 2.5 to 7.2, which change to thermonuclear scramjet engines that start at mach 7.2, and finally thermonuclear rocket engines for out-of-atmosphere use. - the larger speeds being in excess of the mach 3.87 at 30,000 m that the book itself states on pg 020!

Pg 094-095: ARMD 01 to 14 were produced. Other sources state only 8+2 were produced.

Pg 117: what I think reads as until the VF-4G, the VF-4 couldn't change to battroid or gerwalk!

Edited October 4, 2009 by sketchley

[azrael]

Does anyone know exactly how canon this publication is? I'm noticing a lot of little details that are "significantly different" from other published sources.

For example:

Pg 079-080: the VF-1 is indicated as having thermonuclear turbine engines that go from 0 to Mach 2.5, which change to thermonuclear ramjet engines that go from Mach 2.5 to 7.2, which change to thermonuclear scramjet engines that start at mach 7.2, and finally thermonuclear rocket engines for out-of-atmosphere use. - the larger speeds being in excess of the mach 3.87 at 30,000 m that the book itself states on pg 020!

Pg 094-095: ARMD 01 to 14 were produced. Other sources state only 8+2 were produced.

Pg 117: what I think reads as until the VF-4G, the VF-4 couldn't change to battroid or gerwalk!

Well, Kawamori is listed as the supervisor of the book, but the entire thing wasn't written by him according to the credits in the back of the book. In fact, Nanashino mentioned it looks like an update MAT book. So I'm inclined to believe it is an update to MAT.