Anime That Gave Us a Black Mecha Pilot Duo

The mecha genre has long been a staple of the anime industry and is known for its epic battles and complex technological concepts. While many of these stories focus on a singular hero, several series have introduced dynamic pairs of Black or dark skinned pilots who work together to save their worlds. These duos bring unique perspectives and vital skills to their respective squadrons while often serving as the backbone of their military organizations. From veteran commanders to ambitious young cadets, these characters demonstrate that diversity is a key component of the genre’s enduring appeal.

‘Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans’ (2015–2017)

Chad Chadan and Dante Mogro serve as reliable pilots for the Tekkadan mercenary group throughout the series. They often take to the battlefield together in their custom mobile suits to defend their comrades from rival factions. Chad handles ground operations while Dante provides technical expertise and combat support during intense skirmishes. Their presence adds significant depth to the diverse roster of child soldiers fighting for their independence on Mars.

‘The Price of Smiles’ (2019)

Harold Miller and Blake Boyer are veteran pilots within the Grandiga Empire who display exceptional coordination in the field. They operate advanced mecha units and maintain a strong professional bond that allows them to survive the brutal conflict between warring nations. Harold acts as a mentor figure while Blake brings a youthful energy to their joint sorties. Their shared experiences highlight the human cost of war from the perspective of elite soldiers who remain loyal to their cause.

‘Eureka Seven’ (2005–2006)

Matthew and Hilda are members of the Gekkostate resistance who pilot the Terminus type LFOs in fast aerial battles. As a romantic couple, they share a deep synchronicity that makes them a formidable pair when engaging military forces. Matthew is known for his relaxed attitude and expert handling of support units during complex maneuvers. Hilda provides the tactical edge needed to keep the younger crew members safe while navigating dangerous combat zones.

‘Muv-Luv Alternative: Total Eclipse’ (2012)

Leon Kuze and Sharon Heim are elite American test pilots who arrive at the Yukon Base to participate in the Blue Flag exercises. They operate advanced Raptor units and demonstrate the technological superiority of their nation through precise combat simulations. Leon serves as a fierce rival to the protagonist while Sharon maintains a supportive and professional demeanor within their unit. Their partnership is built on years of training and a shared commitment to defending humanity against the alien threat.

’86 Eighty-Six’ (2021–2022)

Raiden Shuga and Brent Bernholdt are key members of the Spearhead Squadron who pilot mecha against the Legion drones. Raiden serves as the vice captain and a grounding force for his squadmates during the most dangerous missions on the front lines. Brent joins the fight later in the series and provides critical support as a veteran soldier with a straightforward attitude. They represent the resilience and bravery of the pilots who are forced to fight for a country that discriminates against them.

‘Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury’ (2022–2023)

Ojelo Gabel and Nuno Marshall are students at the Asticassia School of Technology who eventually pilot mobile suits for the Earth House. They work together to overcome social barriers and prove their worth as pilots in the competitive dueling system of the academy. Ojelo is a charismatic leader among the Earthian students while Nuno provides the technical skills necessary to keep their mecha operational. Their collaboration is essential for the survival of their house during the escalating tensions between corporate factions.

‘Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion’ (2006–2008)

Villetta Nu and Dorothea Ernst are dark skinned pilots who serve within the powerful military hierarchy of the Holy Britannian Empire. Villetta starts as a dedicated Sutherland pilot before rising through the ranks to become a significant figure in the colonial administration. Dorothea appears later as a member of the elite Knights of the Round and pilots a specialized custom mecha during the final stages of the war. Their inclusion adds a layer of diversity to the antagonist forces that the main characters must face in battle.

‘Buddy Complex’ (2013)

Lee Conrad and Jarl Duran are senior pilots of the Free Pact Alliance who operate the Beryl units aboard the carrier ship Cygnus. Lee serves as the dependable captain of the mobile suit unit and offers guidance to the younger protagonists during their first missions. Jarl is a skilled veteran who specializes in heavy assault and often partners with Lee to provide a solid defense for their allies. They act as a protective duo that ensures the safety of the crew against the aggressive enemy forces.

‘Mobile Suit Gundam SEED’ (2002–2003)

Dearka Elsman and Andrew Waltfeld are prominent pilots who eventually find themselves fighting for the same cause after initial conflicts. Dearka is a specialized pilot who defects from his original forces to help the crew of the Archangel defend a neutral colony. Andrew is a legendary commander known as the Desert Tiger who survives a deadly defeat to return as an ace pilot for the resistance. Together they provide veteran leadership and high level combat skills that are crucial to ending the war between rival factions.

‘Turn A Gundam’ (1999–2000)

Loran Cehack and Poe Aijee are pilots from the Moonrace who find themselves on opposite sides of the conflict over Earth. Loran is the protagonist who discovers a legendary mobile suit and uses it to protect the planet while seeking a peaceful resolution. Poe is an elite officer who pilots various units in an attempt to reclaim the surface for her people. Their constant clashes on the battlefield reflect the personal and ideological struggle of the settlers during the war.

‘Mobile Suit Gundam 00’ (2007–2009)

Howard Mason and Daryl Dodge serve as dedicated pilots for the Union forces during the first season of ‘Mobile Suit Gundam 00’. They are members of an elite squadron and participate in numerous high stakes interventions against the mysterious mobile suits of the resistance. Howard is known for his unwavering loyalty to his commander while Daryl provides a focused and tactical presence in the air. Their partnership is defined by their shared commitment to their military duty and their resilience in the face of superior technology.

‘Gundam Reconguista in G’ (2014–2015)

Bellri Zenam and Steer are important members of a traveling crew who pilot mecha to discover the truth behind a global energy crisis. Bellri is a talented young cadet who accidentally becomes the lead pilot and must learn to navigate the complexities of war. Steer serves as a veteran pilot and navigator who manages the mobile suit operations and offers critical assistance during intense battles. Their joint efforts are vital for the survival of their group as they travel across the planet and into space.

‘Basquash!’ (2009)

Dan JD and Sela D Miranda are rival pilots who participate in the high octane sport of mecha basketball. Dan is a streetwise pilot who seeks to use the giant machines for more than just traditional combat while Sela is an elite athlete known for her speed. They eventually form an uneasy alliance as they face off against other teams in a series of spectacular sporting matches. Their dynamic is characterized by a mix of competitive tension and eventual camaraderie on the court.

‘Macross 7’ (1994–1995)

Docker and Kinryu are the leaders of an elite squadron who defend a space colonization fleet from mysterious alien invaders. They pilot specialized fighter units and are known for their tactical brilliance and aggressive combat style in deep space. Docker eventually takes command of the squadron after his partner is sidelined by the effects of the enemy attacks. Their shared history as frontline defenders makes them the primary shield for the civilian population throughout the series.

‘Gundam Build Fighters’ (2013–2014)

Reiji and Julian Mackenzie are talented pilots who demonstrate their skills in the competitive world of high tech model combat. Reiji is a mysterious individual with natural combat instincts who helps his partner reach the top of the international circuit. Julian is an elite veteran who returns to the tournament scene to prove that his customized mecha is the strongest in the world. Their intense matches serve as a highlight of ‘Gundam Build Fighters’ and showcase the diversity of the competitive community.

Please share your favorite memories of these iconic pilot pairings in the comments.