SABER TIGER is a fictional weapon appearing in the Zoids series developed by the toy manufacturer Tomy (now Takara Tomy). This article also records an overview of the Saber Tiger released during the first Zoids series (Mecha Biological Zoids) as well as its various derivative machines.

In Zoids it first appeared in the First Series (1983–1990). At that time the name “Saber Tiger” was used for both the product and the character development but later in the Second Series (1999–2006) it reappeared under the name “Saber Tiger” (セイバータイガー).

Within the in-universe setting this is positioned as a strengthened version of the Saber Tiger belonging to a different faction[1]. However the toy product released by Tomy remained simply a recolor of the same model.

According to Takara Tomy’s public relations among all Zoids products up through the First and Second Series the Saber Tiger is cited as the product with the highest sales numbers[2].

SABER TIGER[1]

The Saber Tiger is the Guylos Empire’s variant of the Zenebas Empire’s Central Continent War-era Saber Tiger[1].

Even after the ZAC2056 Planet Zi Catastrophe surviving Saber Tigers were first upgraded into the Great Saber and later underwent further Guylos refinements[1]. Improved powerplants and cooling systems raised the top speed to 240 kmh[1][8]. With the decline in available wild-type stock production gaps were filled with copy-types[note 3] and while cost-cutting reverted armament to more standard equipment overall performance equaled that of the Great Saber[10]. Its name was formally changed to Saber Tiger and it returned to the battlefield[1][8].

Whereas the original Saber Tiger was somewhat inferior to the Shield Liger[11] the Guylos modifications brought the Saber Tiger up to nearly equal standing[1]. Known as the “Crimson Tempest”[12][13] the unit served from the opening battles of the Western Continent War[6] and remained the backbone of Guylos high-speed forces until the Lightning Saix entered service[14][note 4].

• Twin 30mm Anti-Zoid Beam Cannon – Mounted on the back.
  1. The Shield Liger concealed its weapons internally to maintain top speed but exposing them in combat upset balance. By contrast the Saber Tiger’s externally-mounted weapons gave it far quicker response time in ranged combat[12].
• Surface-to-Surface Missile Pods – Mounted above the twin beam cannon.
• Small-Caliber Anti-Zoid Laser Machine Guns – Mounted on hardpoints beneath the triple impact cannon. Same housing design as the Saber Tiger’s old high-pressure sulfuric acid sprayers but changed to laser weapons.
• TEZ 20mm Linear Laser Guns – Mounted on the tail; same form as Saber Tiger’s close-combat beam guns.
• Triple Impact Cannon – Mounted on the abdomen.
• AEZ 20mm Beam Guns – Mounted on the back; same housing as Saber Tiger’s high-speed cannons.
• Composite Sensor Unit – Mounted on the back; same housing as Saber Tiger’s all-weather 3D radar.
• Killer Sabers – Fangs mounted on the head.
• Strike Claws – Fitted to all four legs; function as electromagnetic claws for melee attacks[12].
• Infrared Laser Searcher – Mounted on the same hardpoint beneath the triple impact cannon; same housing as Saber Tiger’s large infraredlaser searchlight.

After the Hellcat the first high-speed Zoid in history[18] the large-scale Saber Tiger rolled out in ZAC2036 as the first large-type high-speed Zoid. The Zenebas Empire fielded both together as a high-speed unit[18].

The Saber Tiger’s combat doctrine was to maintain top speed while striking vital points[19] a tactic that heavily pressured the Helic Republic. In response the Republic developed counter-Zoids like the Shield Liger and Command Wolf forming their own high-speed mobile squadrons by ZAC2043[20].

This style of unit warfare carried over into the Second Intercontinental War beginning in ZAC2099 with high-speed combat units forming key parts of both factions’ forces[21][note 5].

The kit is powered by a single AA battery featuring a walking motion along with an opening and closing jaw as linked gimmicks[23]. Manual gimmicks include the opening cockpit hatch (fore-hinged on the head) rotation of the weapon mounts and some additional articulation of the head neck and tail. A unique special gimmick was the gear-shift mechanism which lowered walking speed by engaging an eccentric ballast gear when the head was lowered.

The newly designed motor box was slightly smaller than that of the Red Horn and was reused in many later Zoid releases.

• EPZ-003 Saber Tiger – Released July 1986.
• EPZ-003 Great Saber – Released June 1988. A recolored Saber Tiger with added Wing Balancer Missile Pod parts and springs. The Wing Balancer and 8-tube Missile Pods could be manually operated. A reissue was released in August 2005 though safety standards required some changes from the original.
• EZ-016 Saber Tiger – Released October 1999. Eye color changed from smoke-brown (Saber Tiger) to clear green and body color shifted from reddish-brownpurple-red to a stronger red tone.
• ZABER FANG – Released November 2001. A Hasbro overseas Zoid sold domestically following the Tiger-type scheme.
• Saber Tiger Special Color Version (Gold) – Released June 2003 as an Aeon-exclusive. Same as Great Saber aside from coloring and decals.
• Saber Tiger Holotech (Clear Yellow Special Color Version) – Released July 15 2004 as a Toys “R” Us exclusive packaged with Zenebas Empire markings.
• AZ-05 Saber Tiger – Released July 2024. Restyled to be more tiger-like for realism and anime accuracy. Includes figures of Raven and unpainted Shadow.

• Saber Tiger – Released June 2008 (6th in series).
  1. Features segmented torso armor extendable joints and sliding armor synchronized with limb and back articulation.
  2. Package art depicts multiple units ravaging a Helic Republic base with one pinning down a Godos.
  3. A customization set (chrome-plated fangs, claws, decals, clear parts) was released simultaneously.
  4. The kit’s plastic colors are lighter and less red compared to TakaraTomy versions requiring painting for full reproduction.
  5. The “Marking Plus” version released December 2019 added decals and new package art (Republic emblems updated to 2nd-gen design).

• Great Saber – Released May 2010 (19th in series). A recolored Saber Tiger with added parts equivalent to CP-02 Assault Unit.

• Saber Tiger Schwarz Ver. – Released January 2009 (9th in series).
  1. Added Beam Gatling Gun and sensor scope (Multi-Armament Pack).
  2. First production run had yellow claws and fangs; May 2012 reissue changed them to ivory and upgraded decals to water-slide type.

• Saber Tiger Gold – Released February 2011 (Irisawa exclusive 7th limited release).
  1. Gold-painted Great Saber included painted Rudolf figure (standing + cockpit version).
  2. Bonus B4 poster featuring battle scene art from Official Fanbook 4.

• Saber Tiger – Released March 2013 (3rd in series alongside Godos as 4th).
  1. 1/144 scale half the size of TakaraTomy kits matching first-gen Saber Tiger design.
  2. Includes desert diorama base.
• Great Saber – Released September 2013; a recolored variant of the March release.

Announced as the second in the series (after Shield Liger). An electric-walking model using the Shield Liger’s frame with Saber Tiger’s armor. Proportions followed the Tomy kit but with upgraded detail, large clear parts, and new facial articulation for animal-like expressions.

• Saber Tiger Schwarz Special – Scheduled for August 2025 release (1/100 scale, 6th in series).
  1. Prioritizes articulation, ease of assembly, collectability, anime accuracy, and realism.
  2. Features Beam Gatling Gun firing scenes with metallic-spring power cables, recolored back unit in anime colors, and optional standard Saber Tiger back cowl.
  3. Includes Schwarz figure.

* 'Zoids Official Fan Book (Shogakukan)'

• Appears from Volume 1. In September, ZAC 2099, it is deployed on guard duty at Mount Olympus as the personal unit of Lieutenant Stefan Skorzeny. Engaging Colonel Halford’s Helic Republic fast-attack forces, the Saber Tiger singlehandedly destroys multiple Command Wolves with its externally mounted weapons, and pushes the Shield Liger into retreat during bombardment combat. However, at the moment it believes victory is assured, a lapse in caution allows its defeat[6].
• In Volume 3, by July ZAC 2101, defending Imperial units engage the Liger Zero Schneider of the Ray Force (Flash Division) after their landing on the Dark Continent. The defending Saber Tigers are destroyed[7].
• In Volume 4, by October ZAC 2101, seven divisions composed of Hellcats and Iron Kongs fight in the Trim Highlands. They succeed in annihilating 85% of the defending Republic forces[24].

* 'Zoids: New Century / Zero'

• In Episode 3, a normal red-colored Saber Tiger appears. During this encounter, Bit recovers the defeated unit’s Shock Cannon as spoils, later modified and installed on the Liger Zero.

* 'Zoids: Fuzors'

• In Episode 5, four Saber Tigers engage Mach Storm. Exploiting a moment when RD cannot summon the Fire Phoenix, they manage to defeat the Liger Zero and claim victory over Mach Storm.

* 'Zoids: Genesis'

• Appears as part of Lord Tize’s forces from the Kida domain, led alongside his personal Brastle Tiger. After the formation of the Anti-Digald Army, gray-colored Saber Tiger units commanded by Dinga and Ho become the primary combatants. They exploit the Bio Raptor’s oral weak point, successfully destroying several in combat. Dinga is killed in the Battle of the Mist River, while Ho survives to continue serving as part of the Anti-Digald Army.
• The Saber Tiger appears frequently in battle scenes throughout the campaign, fighting up through the final battle against Jiin.

* The Saber Tiger has appeared in nearly every major Zoids game from the earliest titles, beginning with 'Zoids: Battle of the Central Continent' (released September 1987), through to 'Zoids Field of Rebellion' (released April 2017). * 'Zoids Field of Rebellion'

• Appears as a playable medium-class Zoid[25]. While the game’s world draws from ZOIDS concept art, the Saber Tiger design closely follows the traditional kit. It has been part of the roster since the game’s launch. Together with its original pilot, Vance Radford, the Saber Tiger has effectively served as a protagonist in promotional videos and the manga adaptation.

SABER TIGER AT

The Saber Tiger equipped with the Assault Unit. Its armament is nearly identical to the Great Saber developed by the former Zenebas Empire[28], earning it the alternative name of “Great Saber” in reference to the Saber Tiger variant[29][30][31]. In the game Zoids: Silver Beast Machine God Liger Zero it is instead referred to as “Saber Tiger S”[32].

While most machines retained the Saber Tiger’s standard red coloration[33][31], some adopted the black scheme seen on the Great Saber[26]. Within the Guylos Empire’s competition for next-generation main battle Zoids, an even darker-black variant was confirmed[34].

During the Western Continent War, the Saber Tiger’s baseline performance had been upgraded to Great Saber levels. However, due to production costs, its armaments were reverted to standard equipment[10]. As the war intensified and greater combat strength was demanded, the Assault Unit was reintroduced[10], with AT-types deployed to the Empire’s high-speed combat units[4].

* In January, ZAC 2100, participated in mock trials for the next-generation main battle Zoid at Nixie Base alongside the Red Horn GC. The Saber Tiger AT demonstrated performance beyond expectations, accurately launching missiles while moving at speeds over 250 km/h, but was ultimately destroyed by its trial opponent, the Geno Saurer[34].

* In Episode 56 of Zoids: Chaotic Century, a Saber Tiger AT fitted with an electrical special device appears. Nicknamed “Cerberus,” it was capable of generating three-dimensional holographic projections.

* Appears as “Saber Tiger AT” with unchanged designation and settings in the Zoids VS series and Zoids Tactics. * In Resurrection of the Dark God! and Zoids: Republic vs Guylos Empire, it is referred to as the “Great Saber.” In the former, it is treated as an upgraded type of Saber Tiger 2 (later called Saber Tiger Mk-II)[30]. In the latter, it is considered the highest-class Saber Tiger variant[31], obtainable in-game by applying the “Booster Set” modification to a Saber Tiger. * In Silver Beast Machine God Liger Zero, the variant is labeled “Saber Tiger S,” corresponding to this type.

SABER TIGER GOLD

A Saber Tiger painted in imperial gold, a color scheme reserved only for the royal family and those specially permitted by the Empire[35]. Its output is said to be 1.5 times greater than that of a standard unit[35][31].

The HMM (Highend Master Model) version of Saber Tiger Gold features a Zoid Core selected from among 100 original specimens, fitted with an early prototype Organoid System. All parts were handcrafted, making this one of the most elite Zoids ever produced, requiring over a year to build. The cockpit armor is twice as strong as standard units, and the entire frame is coated with “Majestics Anti-Beam Coat,” a paint that grants protection against optical weaponry while giving the unit its golden luster. In this continuity, the “Royal Saber” is reinterpreted as one of 12 semi-mass-production machines constructed under a process similar to Saber Tiger Gold’s creation, exclusively for the imperial family[37].

* Featured as the Emperor’s personal machine within the imperial palace[38]. * During the rebellion in Valhalla late in the Dark Continent War, Emperor Rudolf piloted the unit to challenge Prozen in his Bloody Death Saurer. Though Rudolf’s inexperience and the enemy’s overwhelming power put him at a disadvantage, the Tiger responded to his resolve. Before being crushed, Colonel Schwarz’s Iron Kong SS intervened, severing several of the Death Saurer’s energy conduits. This reduced the explosion’s impact, sparing the capital’s citizens and the allied Republic–Empire forces from total annihilation[38].

* In Zoids Tactics, it appears as “Saber Tiger GOLD”[31], with Rudolf once again confronting Prozen’s Bloody Death Saurer. The player can pilot the unit during specific missions.

Appears in the game ZOIDS SAGA. The personal Saber Tiger (AT) of Phantom Knight Corps’ Four Heavenly Kings member Gale. It is also described as “Saber Tiger (Gale Custom).”

It is equipped with assault combat armaments, the shape of the leg shoulder armor is modified, and the body color is white.

Appeared in episode 25 of the anime Zoids -ZOIDS- as Stinger’s unit. While primarily a Saber Tiger AT colored in reddish-pink, it carried armaments similar to the Poison Jet Gun of the Guysack Stinger Special. Upon its reappearance in episode 43, it featured the same back-mounted equipment as the Royal Saber, along with an additional dual cannon combined with a folding knife-like weapon on its left side.

The unit designation was used in Shogakukan’s Zoids Battle World[39].

Appears in episode 31 of the anime Zoids -ZOIDS-. A custom unit of the Imperial Royal Musketeer Corps belonging to the Imperial family[40]. The shoulder armor of the body has been remodeled, and the cheek sections bear engraving-like patterns.

Two color variants exist: the gold unit piloted by Wagner, designated “Royal Musketeer Corps Custom G,” and the others in silver, designated “Royal Musketeer Corps Custom S.”

Appearing in episode 47 of the anime Zoids -ZOIDS-. A unit equipped with booster cannons mounted on the base frame of the Assault Unit, with the 8-tube missile pods and high-mobility stabilizers removed. In addition to bombarding the Evolution Cocoon, it accompanied the Saber Tiger SS to confront the Geno Breaker, but was swept away before its Charged Particle Cannon.

The designation of the unit is referenced from the official website at the time of broadcast[40].

An emperor-exclusive Saber Tiger that appeared in episode 33 of the anime Zoids -ZOIDS-. The machine’s color scheme is primarily dark gray. Engraving-like patterns are applied across various parts of the body. In addition, the front shoulder armor has been replaced with new golden parts.

Its back-mounted equipment is derived from the Saber Tiger AT, though the latter half omits the high-mobility stabilizers. On the right-side armor, a large beam cannon (similar to the beam cannon of the Red Horn BG) is mounted. The cockpit located in the head is a tandem seat type, allowing control to be switched at will to the rear seat.

In the anime, Chancellor Homaref initially piloted the unit, but as he failed to draw out its performance, Rudolph eventually took over the controls.

A variation first appearing in the anime Zoids -ZOIDS-, later included in the Zoids Battle Story.

One of the favorite machines of Guylos Empire Army officer Karl Lichten Schwarz[注 8], used in situations requiring high-speed mobile combat[44]. Nicknamed the “Treasure of the Empire”[45]. Its firepower is reinforced by equipping the CP-03 Beam Gatling on its back, but the imbalance makes handling so difficult that ordinary pilots cannot control it[35]. In Zoids -ZOIDS-, the beam gatling is shown with a short barrel and additional equipment like a radome and infrared sensors to improve accuracy[40][28].

This designation was used in the Zoids Battle Card Game and in Zoids Official Fan Book 2[42][44], while in Prozen’s Rebellion it is instead referred to as “Saber Tiger (Schwarz Custom)”[35].

*Anime – Zoids -ZOIDS-:

First appears in episode 29, in a mock battle against Ralph’s Black Redlers.

In episode 47, deployed to command Guylos Empire high-mobility Zoids, but Raven’s Geno Breaker annihilated the unit with its Charged Particle Cannon, leaving only Schwarz’s custom and one other unit.

In episode 59, fought the Death Stinger alongside Major Rob Herman’s Shield Liger, helping break through its E-Shield, though both machines were destroyed.

Battle Story:

Confirmed in Official Fan Book 2[46], and appears in Official Fan Book 4. Used when Schwarz traveled to a Republic forward base on the Dark Continent for a secret meeting with Colonel Rob Herman of the Helic Republic Army. Pursued by Sergeant Johan Horst Stauffen of the Eisen Dragoon Phantom Unit in his Liger Zero X, Schwarz’s Saber Tiger SS acted as a decoy. It was destroyed when its Zoids Core was pierced, leaving Schwarz gravely injured[47].

Appeared in episode 4 of Zoids: New Century/Zero as Porta’s custom unit from Team Morde. The body was primarily black with red highlights, and its back was equipped with a multi-warhead homing spread missile pod identical to the Command Wolf Spread Missile Equipment Type. In episode 9 it appeared again without the missile pod.

This designation comes from Bessatsu CoroCoro Comic, February 2001 issue[48].

A Saber Tiger possessing innate Holotech abilities due to a mutation of its Zoid Core. Normally, Holotech armor is said to be clear armor designed for beam reflection, but congenital Holotech functions as a pure transparency ability. Unlike ordinary optical camouflage, it can adapt to any terrain or situation, blending seamlessly into its surroundings, feared as the “Invisible Zoid”[49].

*Anime – Zoids Fuzors:

Appears in episodes 7 and 8 as Kidd’s Saber Tiger. Its transparency ability allows it to defeat numerous Zoids such as Killer Spiner and Boldo Gale, and even evade a joint entrapment operation by Liger Zero and the Bureau of Public Safety’s Zoids using special optical lights. Despite being an older model, it displayed astonishing power. Ultimately, its Holotech function was neutralized and it was destroyed by Leostriker.

Games:

In Zoids VS.III, it appears simply as a Saber Tiger with standard optical camouflage, but its performance is mediocre.

Published in Dengeki Hobby Magazine. Equipped with a wing binder on its back integrated with twin linear cannons, balancing mobility and firepower. The wing binder could be jettisoned even during battle. This was one of the unproduced Custom Parts designs[50].

Appears in ZOIDS SAGA series (SAGA II, DS) and ZOIDS VS.II (first appearance in SAGA II)[51]. Considered the origin point of the CAS (Changing Armor System)[53], though how it changes has not been revealed.

Compared to a standard Saber Tiger, its exterior features a heavily redesigned head and enlarged fangs, along with exclusive weapons and unique EX abilities. It is also the only tiger-type variant in the series equipped with the AEZ 20mm Beam Gun[51].

VS.II – Treated as the personal Zoid of Kouki Demon, the Imperial protagonist.

Imperial Story: Appears as an enemy Zoid in Mission 5, then supplied to the player in Mission 6.

Republic Story: Appears in Mission 16 (Route A) as an allied unit piloted by Kouki[54].

Appeared as a promo card in the Zoids Battle Card Game. FT stands for “Forest Type”[56], a Saber Tiger finished in jungle camouflage.

Games:

Appears in ZOIDS SAGA and SAGA DS as a machine with enhanced close-combat capabilities.

In both titles, it appears as a Team Sanders unit, faced as an opponent by the player.

Raven’s custom unit, which appeared in episode 12 of the anime Zoids: Chaotic Century. Its shoulder armor is painted in a bluish-black (or purple) shade. Unlike the normal Saber Tiger, most ranged weaponry has been stripped, retaining only the Ground-to-Ground Missile Pod, the Twin 30mm Anti-Zoid Beam Cannons, and the Triple Shock Cannon.

The designation “Saber Tiger RS” comes from the Zoids Battle Card Game[58]. In that game, while the color scheme follows the anime, the example build retains the standard armament layout. The shoulders feature Raven’s personal insignia, a decal originally included with the Geno Saurer kit.

In other media, this variant appears under different names:

“Saber Tiger RV” in Zoids VS. series, Zoids Tactics, and Zoids Card Colosseum.

“Saber Tiger RaS” on a card from the Zoids Battle Card Game Exciting Booster[59]. Some sources note that aside from the paint scheme, there is little to no difference from the normal unit[28].

Anime: Zoids: Chaotic Century

First appears in episode 12. Under orders from the Guylos Empire, Raven singlehandedly destroys multiple Helic Republic Zoids and fortresses.

Enhanced further through fusion with his Organoid, Shadow, the unit demonstrates overwhelming performance. However, after sustaining accumulated damage across several battles, Raven deliberately rams it into Van’s Shield Liger—protected by its E-Shield—during the battle at Mount Ossa, destroying the machine.

Manga: Zoids: Chaotic Century

Raven uses this machine during his attack on Wind Colony. It battles the awakened Command Wolf (empowered by the Organoid Zeke) and ultimately ends in mutual destruction when the Command Wolf unleashes its ultimate attack, “Ragnarök Fang.”

In this version, when Shadow merges with the Zoid, its coloration shifts from red to black.

Appears in the anime Zoids: New Century/Zero as the team machines of Team Tigers.

Lineback’s unit in episode 1 is equipped with a Long-Range Rifle and used as a stationary gun emplacement.

In episode 8, another unit appears fitted with a rear-mounted weapon system linked to a floating electric mine device (visually resembling a reversed short-barrel CP-04 Attack Unit).

The designation “Saber Tiger TS” originates from the games Zoids VS.II and Zoids Saga II.

Appearing first in the Zoids VS. series, this variant is essentially a normal Saber Tiger with silver coloration. The suffix “TD” stands for “Tiger Driver,” marking it as that unit’s personal machine. However, the nature of the “Tiger Driver” itself is unclear.

Performance stats are slightly improved compared to the normal type, but no other structural changes are evident.

This variant appears in Zoids VS.II, VS.III, and Zoids Tactics. It is deployed by the Guylos Empire’s elite Lottiger Squad.

The RT type features a purple paint scheme but otherwise shares the same outward design as the normal Saber Tiger. Internally, it is customized for the military police role, resulting in modestly improved performance[28].

Reiner Granat uses the RT as his personal unit.

In VS.II, during Republic Mission 12 (Route A), Kouki Demon is also seen piloting an RT equipped with a Gatling Unit[64].

Appears in the game Zoids Tactics. A captured-use Saber Tiger variant, modified with Republic military combat data, ID codes, and coloration.

Despite these changes, its combat capability is essentially the same as the Guylos Empire’s original version[28].

Appears in the game Zoids 2: Republic vs. Empire as an original custom unit. It mounts a large Beam Launcher on its back[31].

In gameplay, it is obtained by applying the “Beam Launcher Set” upgrade to a Saber Tiger.

Appears in Zoids -ZOIDS- Resurrection! Genobreaker Chapter and Zoids 2: Republic vs. Empire as a modified Saber Tiger (listed as “Saber 2” in Resurrection!). A heavily armed type, outfitted with a large Beam Launcher, anti-air missiles, and other weapons[30][31].

The concept originates from the Mecha Life Zoids Custom Set (Empire Large Mecha Version) packaging, where a customized Saber Tiger was shown equipped with a large Beam Launcher, high-altitude anti-air missiles, and laser light units.

An original customized unit from the game Zoids 2: Republic vs. Guylos Empire. Designed as a high-mobility type capable of operating in all terrains[31] it features a wing booster, AZ anti-air missiles and a twin pulse laser gun mounted on its back.

Although it shares the same name as the Schwarz custom unit “Saber Tiger SS” it is an entirely different machine.

A Zoid that appeared in the game Zoids: Silver Beast Machine God Liger Zero[65]. Its overall form closely resembles the Saber Tiger though its details are quite different. Other than being classified as an L-type Zoid its size and specifications remain unknown (all displayed as “?” in-game)[66].

SABRE TIGER [67]

The Saber Tiger was the first large-scale high-speed Zoid in history, developed by the Zenebas Empire in ZAC2036. Incorporating technologies from the Hellcat[18], it was manufactured at special imperial factories within Zenebas territory[70][Note 14]. Compared to the Red Horn, it was smaller and lighter, sacrificing output but excelling in mobility[67]. Nicknamed the “Red Lightning of the Battlefield”[72], it could maintain speeds of 200 km/h even in combat[19].

Its “Ice Screen” cockpit used a 3D display system, processing captured images into holographic visuals for the pilot[19]. Known for its hit-and-run ambushes[19][Note 15], it often formed high-speed strike units alongside the Hellcat[18]. By ZAC2047–2048 during the Central Continent War, it had largely retired from frontline service[73].

The Saber Tiger appears as an existing Imperial Zoid that was further modified with Earth-derived technology[74].

Twin Beam Cannon – Back-mounted accurate even while running at full speed[19]

All-Weather Homing Missile Launcher – Above the dual beam cannon radar-guided[75]

High-Pressure Sulfuric Acid Gun – Underbelly hardpoint; melts armor with acid mist[76]

Close Combat Beam Guns – Tail-mounted effective against small Zoids and rear attacks[19][77]

Triple Impact Cannon – Belly-mounted; generates shockwaves to blow away small Zoids[19]

High-Speed Cannons – Built into the body (×2)

All-Weather 3D Radar – Back-mounted effective against aerial targets[77]

Laser Sabers – Fangs that generate energy beams to burn through armor[19]

Large Infrared & Laser Searchlight – Belly-mounted, useful in night combat[77]

Saber Ears – Ear sensors detect sound signatures 1 km away[19]

Ground Sensors – Ankle-mounted detect terrain conditions in motion[19]

Zoids Battle Story Vol.1 – Debuts in ZAC2036. Its high-speed combat prowess even troubled the mighty Zoid Golias. Republic soldiers were so threatened that they received orders: “If your unit encounters Saber Tigers call in air support and retreat immediately.”[72]

Battle Story Vol.2 – In ZAC2039, General Danny “Tiger” Duncan’s Saber Tiger downed a low-flying Salamander earning the nickname “Flying Tiger.” Later Duncan shielded Emperor Zenebas from an Ultra Saurus bombardment ensuring his escape to the Dark Continent[78][Note 16].

ZAC2042 – Saber Tigers and Hellcats attacked the Republic’s Hadrian Wall defenses but were defeated by Shield Ligers and Command Wolves[79][Note 17].

Zoids Tactics – Depicted as a Neo-Zenebas Empire “symbol of national restoration” externally restored but internally rebuilt with modern technology[28].

Zoids Material Hunters – Features a Concept Art-style redesign in red and black two-tone coloration with variants in Red, Black, and Gold[80].

Featured in Zoids Battle Story Vol.1, this is a long-range sniper version of the Sabre Tiger. It is distinct from the similarly named custom machine published later in school magazines.

Equipped with a long-range sniper cannon boasting extremely high accuracy on its back, it was capable of detecting and eliminating enemies from afar. It earned a fearsome reputation as an assassin-like Zoid that could kill without being detected or approached[72].

First appearance was in Shogaku Ichinensei (First Grade Elementary Magazine), November 1986 issue. In the story, it sniped and destroyed several Republic Zoids such as the Guysack from long range, but was ultimately annihilated when its base was bombarded by missiles from the Variant (Missile Gojulas)[82].

A two-tone camouflage color variation featured on the back of the EPZ-003 Sabre Tiger package. It is said to have appeared in an Imperial Army parade, though it is unclear if it was ever deployed in actual combat. Equipment changes were also reportedly planned[67]. Compared to the normal type, several weapons had been removed.

While the package notes describe the camouflage colors as dark green and navy blue, the actual illustration depicts a more brown-toned camouflage.

A night combat type featured on the back of the EPZ-003 Sabre Tiger package. Additional radar sensors were installed across the machine. Because it was difficult to increase output, some weaponry was removed to compensate for the added weight[67].

A custom type published in the September 1986 issue of Shogaku Ichinensei magazine[83]. In that issue it was only referred to as a “Custom Sabre Tiger,” but in a later special issue a proper name was given[84]. It is distinct from the similarly named machine featured in Zoids Battle Story Vol.1 (though a still photograph of this version appeared on the cover of that volume).

Its back-mounted equipment and fangs were enlarged, and it was painted primarily in white and red.

In the story published in Shogaku Ichinensei, this unit fought alongside a normal Sabre Tiger against a Gojulas, firing on its shoulder. Immediately afterward, its wingman Sabre Tiger engaged the Gojulas in close combat[83][note 18].

GREAT SABER[86]

An upgraded variant of the Sabre Tiger. Development records differ: one account states it was modified in ZAC 2046 under Emperor Zenebas’s orders to crush the Republic Army retreating into the Central Mountains after the fall of the capital[86]; another states it was developed to defend Imperial supply lines in the northern Central Mountains, emphasizing jungle mobility, long supply-line counterattack capability, and 24-hour defensive readiness, debuting in June ZAC 2047 with offensive power surpassing the Shield Liger and Bear Fighter[90].

Performance and firepower were improved by 20% compared to the base model[86]. Known as the “Black Lightning of the Jungle,” the machine’s body color scheme was predominantly black, excelling in night combat[90][91].

In ZAC 2046, it was fielded alongside the Deathsaurer Mk-II Type, Brachios NEW, and Black Rhimos NEW under the Mk-II Corps commanded by the mass-produced Iron Kong Mk-II[86].

Some media list it as “Great Saber Mk-II Type”[93]. In CoroCoro Comic (August 1988), even a normal Sabre Tiger equipped with the NEW Modification Set (Empire Large Mecha Use) (8-barrel missile pod and wings) was referred to as a Great Saber[94].

Battle Story (Shogakukan)

Debuted in Zoids Battle Story 2. In June ZAC 2047, engaged Republic Shield Liger and Bear Fighter units in the Central Mountains, annihilating the Bear Fighter squad and destroying the dismounted Shield Liger pilots with overwhelming firepower[90].

In Zoids Battle Story 4 (August ZAC 2048), multiple units with heavy artillery turrets on their backs launched bombardments in the mountains near the Republic border, only to be destroyed by Ultra Saurus return fire[96].

Featured in the school-grade Zoids Battle Story alongside the Iron Kong Mk-II, Black Rhimos NEW, Deathsaurer Mk-II, and Brachios NEW as part of the Mk-II Division. Demonstrated “split attack” maneuvers to outwit and destroy Gojulas Mk-II Mass Production types, later confronting Shield Liger Mk-II units but suffering defeat[93][98].

Early Republic encounters noted it as a “new Zoid.” In a night raid, one unit destroyed a Shield Liger, then leapt 250 m into the air with its High-Mobility Flight Wings to attack a Salamander, enduring missile bombardments[91]. Confronted Shield Liger Mk-II afterward, though outcome was unspecified.

Participated in an Imperial night attack force against the Madthunder development base, but was destroyed by the Magneiser[99].

At the end of the First Intercontinental War, Dark Army (Guylos) units deployed Great Sabers against the arriving King Gojulas, but were annihilated by its Super Gatling Cannon[100].

Games

Appears in the Zoids VS. series and Zoids Tactics. In the latter, it is depicted as a Neo-Zenebas reconstruction of the original Empire’s machine[28].

Takara Tomy’s MP Saber Tiger (August 2016) lists enlarged specs: Length 21.6 m, Height 10.8 m, Weight 93.6 t.

Kotobukiya’s HMM Saber Tiger (June 2008) assembly manual states the ear sections contain sensors, and the ankles mount ground sensors.

The same June 2008 HMM Saber Tiger manual alternatively states its wild Zoid core was swapped for one from a Western Continent tiger-type.

Even by ZAC 2101, as the Dark Continent War began, the Saber Tiger remained assigned to high-speed combat divisions[15][16]. It was still considered a mainstay machine, though its win rate against the Republic’s Blade Liger was about 30%[17]. Lightning Saix surpassed it in most specs except maneuverability and mountain terrain adaptation[16][17], but could not pierce Blade Liger-class E-Shields with its firepower, leaving it at about 40% win rate[17]. For the Republic, the equivalent unit was the Shield Liger DCS-J[17].

Some Zoids possessed comparable speed and melee capability but were not classified as “high-speed Zoids,” such as Geno Saurer, Rev Raptor, and Gun Sniper, which were assigned to assault divisions during the Western Continent War[22].

a b Kotobukiya’s HMM Great Saber (May 2010) and Saber Tiger Gold (February 2011) manuals rename the beam gun as a “20mm Solid Rifle.” Energy tanks were redesignated as sub-generators, and the ears were fitted with “stealth-treated radar-reflective armor.”

“SS” stands for Schwarz Special[41].

Comparable designations also existed for Iron Kong SS, Dark Horn, etc.

“RS” stands for Raven Special[56][57].

“TS” stands for Tigers Special[60].

a b c Zoids Saga II (April 2003) game data: the back-mounted weapon was swapped for a short-range cannon resembling the ep.8 Slash Zero additional armament.

a b c d Zoids -ZOIDS- Resurrection! Geno Breaker Edition Official Guidebook (2000, Shogakukan)[30]. In-game kana/abbreviated names were replaced by kanji/toy-kit official names (2nd-gen series).

Maximum continuous operation: 5 minutes[68].

The HMM Saber Tiger manual alternatively lists its wild Zoid’s origin as Mount Dorneo on the Central Continent[71].

While the Saber Tiger excelled at ambushes, Official Fanbook 4 judged its stealth performance inferior to Helcat.

After Barresia Base was captured by the Republic, many Saber Tigers were seized. Data from them contributed to the Shield Liger’s development[79].

In that battle, Zenebas forces used Sinkers to bomb a breach, with Black Rhimos leading through, followed by Saber Tigers and Helcats, while Red Horns and Iron Kongs covered. But this Hadrian’s Wall battle was actually a Republic trap: weakened defenses lured the fast units in, where hidden Shield Ligers and Command Wolves ambushed. The Zenebas fast division was encircled and crushed[79].

In Battle Story photos, only the bite scene used a normal Saber Tiger in place of the variant[72].

Some cuts depict it with tail-mounted weapons[85].

The HMM Great Saber (May 2010) manual alternatively describes it as a Zenebas test-bed for new technology gained during Deathsaurer’s development. Performance was drastically boosted, but production and handling worsened, so only ace pilots received it. Its name “Great Saber” symbolized “Great Sword,” and Republic troops feared it as the “Liger Killer” or “Black Thunder Beast.”

In Tomy’s Zoids Battle Video (1989), the unit’s Deathsaurer was depicted in standard configuration[92].

School magazine versions vary: Shield Liger pilots estimated “5 Saber Tigers” based on Bear Fighter wreckage, but were actually defeated by a single Great Saber[95].

In another version, it was destroyed instead by an aerial Salamander V strike[97].