Gunpla Lineup May 2026: New HG, RG & Premium Bandai Kits Revealed

Bandai Hobby is bringing another strong wave of Gunpla kits this month, featuring new designs from Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway, exclusive Premium Bandai releases, and several collector-focused variants that are already generating hype among builders.

From bulky heavy-armored mobile suits to stylish collaboration kits and clear-color exclusives, the May 2026 lineup offers something for both casual builders and hardcore Gunpla collectors.

Here’s a closer look at the newest Gunpla kits coming this month.

General Release

HG 1/144 Messer Type-M01 (Gawman Use)

Grade: High Grade (HG)
Scale: 1/144
Release Date: May 2026

The Messer returns with an updated design inspired by Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway: The Sorcery of Nymph Circe. This version recreates Gawman’s customized Messer Type-M01 with newly designed armor parts and upgraded articulation.

One of the most eye-catching details is the unfinished gray shoulder armor on the left side, giving the mobile suit a rugged battlefield-maintenance appearance. Even with its large and bulky frame, the kit maintains impressive mobility thanks to Bandai’s modern HG engineering.

Features

• Newly molded exterior armor
  
• Flexible articulation system
  
• Stress-free movable skirt armor
  
• Gawman-specific shoulder parts
  
• Includes beam sabers, rifle, shield, and spike armor
  

The Messer has become one of the most popular large-scale HG kits in recent years because of its intimidating proportions and military-inspired design. This updated version adds even more personality while keeping the imposing silhouette that Hathaway fans love.

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Premium Bandai Exclusives

RG 1/144 RX-78-2 Gundam Ver.2.0 [Hatsune Miku Ver.]

Grade: Real Grade (RG)
Scale: 1/144
Release Date: May 2026

This special collaboration combines the legendary RX-78-2 Gundam with the iconic virtual singer Hatsune Miku.

Using the highly praised RG RX-78-2 Ver.2.0 as its base, this exclusive version features a unique turquoise-and-white color scheme inspired by Miku’s signature design. The combination of detailed Real Grade engineering and vibrant collaboration styling makes this one of the most unique releases of the year.

Features

• Hatsune Miku-inspired color palette
  
• Advanced RG Ver.2.0 inner frame
  
• High articulation and stability
  
• Exclusive collaboration decals

HG 1/144 Gundam Barbatos Adapt

Grade: High Grade (HG)
Scale: 1/144
Release Date: May 2026

The legendary Gundam Barbatos returns with a redesigned appearance for the Iron-Blooded Orphans anniversary project.

The “Adapt” version presents Barbatos in an upgraded combat-ready form with enhanced armor, revised proportions, and improved articulation. The design keeps the aggressive identity of Barbatos while modernizing the overall structure for better posing and display.

Features

• Updated Gundam Frame design
  
• New armor configuration
  
• Enhanced articulation system
  
• Durable KPS joint parts
  
• Based on the anniversary project design

This release is expected to become a favorite among IBO fans thanks to its fresh interpretation of one of the franchise’s most iconic mobile suits.

HG 1/144 D Gundam Second

Grade: High Grade (HG)
Scale: 1/144
Release Date: May 2026

Bandai continues expanding lesser-known Universal Century side stories with the release of D Gundam Second from Double Fake Under the Gundam.

This mobile suit combines classic UC aesthetics with upgraded thruster systems and a unique silhouette that stands out from traditional Gundam designs.

Features

• Newly designed backpack
  
• Pop-out vernier gimmicks
  
• Detailed part separation
  
• Retro-inspired proportions

Collectors who enjoy rare or obscure Gundam units will definitely want to keep an eye on this release.

RG 1/144 MSN-04FF Sazabi [Clear Color]

Grade: Real Grade (RG)
Scale: 1/144
Release Date: May 2026

The powerful MSN-04FF Sazabi receives a stunning clear-color treatment in this Premium Bandai exclusive release.

Transparent armor parts allow builders to fully appreciate the incredible mechanical detail of the Real Grade inner frame, turning the kit into an impressive display centerpiece.

Features

• Clear-color outer armor
  
• Visible RG inner frame
  
• Premium collector presentation
  
• Highly detailed mechanical structure

For fans of clear-color kits, this release perfectly showcases why the Sazabi remains one of the most visually impressive RG kits ever produced.

This month’s Gunpla lineup offers a balanced mix of action-packed modern designs, nostalgic side-story releases, and collector-focused exclusives. The HG Messer Type-M01 (Gawman Use) stands out as one of the strongest general releases, while the Premium Bandai lineup adds extra excitement for longtime Gundam fans and collectors.

Whether you’re building for display, collecting limited releases, or simply looking for your next favorite kit, these May 2026 Gunpla releases are definitely worth checking out.

Explore more upcoming Gunpla kits and new arrivals at P-Rex Hobby