Anime That Let a Black Girl Pilot the Giant Robot

Over the years, anime has become much more diverse, with a wider variety of characters taking on important roles. This includes the popular ‘mecha’ genre – shows featuring giant robots – where Black female characters are now frequently seen piloting these powerful machines. Often, these characters are highly skilled pilots who are essential to the story and demonstrate impressive fighting abilities. The following anime showcase Black girls and women commanding giant robots and fighting for what they believe in.

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

Amida Arca is a highly skilled pilot and a leader within the Turbines faction, often acting as a mother figure to her crew. She’s known for expertly piloting a customized Hyakuren mobile suit and frequently leads the way in tough battles. Her fighting style is both bold and strategic, and she guides less experienced pilots during combat. Another pilot, Azee Gurumin, flies a Hyakuren and later a Shiden, driven by a desire to protect her family. Throughout the series, Amida earns respect through her dedication and extensive battle experience.

‘Eureka Seven’ (2005–2006)

Hilda is the pilot of the Terminus R808 and a key member of the Gekko State, a rebellious group. She works with her partner, Matthieu, to run the group’s spaceship and mechs. Hilda’s striking appearance – with dark skin and a unique hairstyle – reflects her independent spirit. Though she seems tough, she cares deeply for the younger members of the Gekko crew. Throughout the battles against the military, Hilda proves to be a skilled and dependable pilot.

‘Sakura Wars: New York NY’ (2007)

Cheiron Archer is a new character in the New York Combat Revue, playing a dual role as both a lawyer and the leader of a Harlem biker gang. When supernatural threats emerge, she fights them piloting a unique steam-powered mech called a STAR. Cheiron’s strong personality sometimes causes conflict with her teammates, but they eventually learn to collaborate effectively. As an African-American woman, Cheiron brings fresh representation to this popular steampunk series. She balances her high-energy battles with her everyday professional life, always fighting to protect New York.

‘Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion’ (2006–2007)

I’ve always been fascinated by Villetta Nu! She starts out as this super capable Britannian pilot, flying those incredible, heavily armored Knightmare Frames. She’s a really disciplined soldier, and clearly values the whole ranking system within the Britannian Empire. But her story gets really interesting when she starts losing her memories and gets tangled up with a Japanese resistance fighter – it totally throws her beliefs into question. It’s amazing watching her change! Eventually, she goes back to fighting, but she sees things so differently. Plus, she’s just a really cool character – her design is unique, and she’s such a skilled pilot, she really stands out in the series.

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

Lilique Kadoka is a pilot for Earth House, skillfully operating mobile suits such as the Heindree Sturm. A bright and romantic student, she enthusiastically supports Suletta Mercury in both school duels and actual combat. Lilique is notable for her diverse character design, featuring dark skin and textured hair, which brings refreshing representation. Despite the pressures of battle, she remains optimistic and a strong support for her friends, consistently proving herself as a capable pilot amidst the intense conflicts at Asticassia School of Technology.

’86 EIGHTY-SIX’ (2021–2022)

Kurena Kukumila is a skilled sniper who fights as a Processor, piloting a spider-like mecha called a Juggernaut. Driven by a burning hatred for the Legion machines that destroyed her home, she’s a vital member of the Spearhead Squadron, providing crucial long-range support during their dangerous missions. Though fiercely loyal to her squad leader, Kurena battles with her own emotions while facing the constant horrors of war, and overcomes prejudice with incredible resilience. The story showcases her strength as she fights through endless mechanical warfare.

‘Gurren Lagann’ (2007)

Kiyal Bachika is the youngest of the Black Siblings and fights against the Beastmen using a giant robot called a Gunmen. At first, she battles with her brothers, but later joins the larger Team Dai-Gurren in their fight to free humanity. Kiyal is a cheerful and lively fighter, even when the odds are stacked against them. Her robot’s unique design fits perfectly with the show’s overall style. She makes it through the difficult war and helps build a new society after the defeat of the Spiral King.

‘Mobile Suit Gundam SEED C.E. 73: Stargazer’ (2006)

Canary Belst is a skilled pilot and lieutenant in the Phantom Pain special forces. She expertly operates the Verde Buster Gundam, a powerful mobile suit, and is a battle-hardened veteran who always puts the mission and her team’s safety first. Known for her quick reflexes, Canary excels in fast-paced combat against enemy forces and makes a memorable impression defending her unit despite being outnumbered.

‘Cross Ange: Rondo of Angels and Dragons’ (2014–2015)

Zola Axberg leads a team of Para-Mail riders and fights interdimensional dragons in a transforming mecha. A hardened veteran who lost an eye in battle, she’s seen the worst of her world and isn’t afraid to show it. Zola trains new recruits rigorously and seeks out pleasure when she can, balancing the harsh realities of war with personal indulgence. She’s an incredibly skilled pilot, expertly navigating challenging aerial maneuvers. Zola embodies the tough side of a society where women must constantly fight to survive.

‘Macross Zero’ (2002–2004)

Nora Polyansky is a highly skilled fighter pilot for the forces opposing the U.N. She flies the SV-51, a versatile combat aircraft, and is driven by a desire for revenge after losing her family. The trauma she experienced left both physical and emotional wounds. Nora is a major rival to the story’s hero, constantly challenging him in aerial combat. Her unique appearance—dark skin and white hair—reflects her fierce and relentless flying style. She’s central to the struggle for alien artifacts discovered on a Mayan island.

‘Geneshaft’ (2001)

Tiki Muscan is a pilot created through genetic engineering, and she controls a massive robot called the Shaft. Often nicknamed Tinkerbell, she’s energetic and a bit quirky. Tiki uses her special abilities to pilot the robot and battle the enemy known as the Sneak. Her dark skin and platinum hair identify her unique genetic background within the show’s futuristic world. She’s a chaotic but valuable team member, and a highly skilled fighter when necessary.

‘Vandread’ (2000)

Gascogne Rheingau is a high-ranking officer on the Nirvana, where she pilots the mecha Pyoro. She’s a calm and dependable older sister figure to the rest of the crew and likes to relax by playing poker. In combat, she’s known for using powerful weapons to break through enemy lines. Gascogne is fiercely loyal and always ready to risk her own safety to protect the ship and her crewmates. She’s also easily recognizable thanks to her dark skin and distinctive spiky hairstyle.

‘Dual! Parallel Trouble Adventure’ (1999)

Yayoi Schwael is a pilot for the Earth Defense Force, flying a white mecha. She’s a dedicated and disciplined soldier who often scolds the main character for being reckless. Though a beautiful woman with dark skin and white hair, Yayoi secretly has feelings for him. She fights to defend a parallel world from invaders, all while dealing with the show’s lighthearted and complicated romantic relationships. As a highly skilled pilot, she’s a reliable and valuable asset to the organization.

‘Back Arrow’ (2021)

Elsha Lean is a skilled mecha pilot and the granddaughter of her village’s chief. She controls a Briheight called Shadoh and is a compassionate hunter who teams up with the main character to overcome a massive barrier surrounding their world. In battle, Elsha favors speed and precision with her bow-like weapon over raw strength. She’s visually striking with dark skin and clothing that represents her cultural heritage. Throughout the story, she evolves from a local guardian into a powerful warrior fighting for the future of the entire land.

‘Tenchi Muyo! War on Geminar’ (2009–2010)

Aura Shurifon is a Dark Elf princess who fights in a giant, sacred robot. Though normally calm and graceful, she’s a powerful warrior when piloting her green and gold mech. With dark skin and the ability to control the wind, Aura gains an edge in battle. She limits her powers during the day, but at night, she unleashes her full potential. Her character is a unique blend of fantasy and science fiction, combining the traits of a fantasy race with the technology of giant robots.

Please share your favorite mecha pilots from this list in the comments.

2025-12-12 10:16