The Gunab is the third "G-series" 'Mech designed by JB BattleMechs of Storfors. The "G-series", as it is known to Lyran 'Mech buffs, were designed to utilize a common chassis to provide a series of 'Mechs filling different combat roles, but using the same logistical chain. This cheap alternative to OmniMech technology, pioneered elsewhere in the Inner Sphere, was particularly appealing to LAAF quartermasters. The Gunab represents a half-way point between its stablemates - the fire-support Gae Bold, and the close-quarters brawler Gaki.

The Gunab owes more to the Gae Bolg than it does to the Gaki; engineers started with the jumpless design to produce this new version. The reliable Defiance 1001 ER PPC remains a common feature to all three models; extended use has shown it to be particularly reliable in the low-temperature conditions favoured by Lyran generals. However, the several missile launchers and the autocannon of the Gae Bolg are replaced by a single massive MRM-40 launcher, based on new designs from Coventry. The launcher, while not particularly heavy, is so bulky that it looms out of the left torso, and blocks at least a third of the pilot’s field of view.

The Gaki’s legacy are its improved heat-shedding system, utilizing 14 double heat sinks to moderate heat spikes, and the installation of a battlefist on the left arm. A final secondary weapon is provided - a standatd large laser mounted in the right arm, replacing the two LRM-5 launchers carried in the Gae Bolg. 11.5 tons of standard armor protect the design, and the same 240-rated light fusion engine as the other G-series 'Mechs is of course retained.

With little interest in the Gunab at this point in time, JB engineers are considering a revised Gunab, containing superficial differences on largely the same chassis. The most promising carries two MRM-20 launchers in conventional torso mounts, reaching only to below the cockpit. Twin large lasers, one in each arm, complete the armament. This design loses the traditional G-series ERPPC, but maintains a more even heat burden under repeated firing.

Gunab was the Khoikhoi god of evil, and unfortunately the Gunab has a wicked reputation amongst Mechwarriors. Most seem to view assignment to a Gunab as punishment duty, even though this reputation is not well deserved.

The Gunab was initially issued to Gaki pilots; unfortunately, Gaki pilots not only had familiarity with the basic chassis and system, but they’d picked up some bad habits as well. And a tendency to run over-hot may be acceptable when piloting an all-energy weapon 'Mech, but is not in one carrying several hundred explosive warheads right next to the cockpit. A freak accident where the Gunab’s CASE failed to release properly, showering armor shards through the cockpit, was caught on film, and the reputation was sealed.

Despite this, pilots who take time to learn the Gunab’s ways are usually well-pleased. The reliable ER PPC provides punch at long ranges, while 40 HE missiles fired at ranges of 450m or less are often enough to knock an opponent down, regardless of its class. A Gunab pilot has to learn patience - the design’s average mobility means it can’t dictate position to its foes, but has to wait to gain an advantage.

JB consultants are trying to push the virtue of "3G3" companies - each with one lance of Gae Bolg, Gaki and Gunab. The Gunab take up relatively fixed positions in cover, while the Gae Bolgs hang back. The Gaki lance then moves forward, then jumps back to draw the enemy into the Gunab’s missile envelope. Faster light 'Mechs which attempt to break through to the fire support have to wade past the Gunabs to get there, while under fire from their intended targets. Unfortunately, with the unwarranted bad press gained by the Gunab, no such "3G3" companies have been ordered.