Viper
The elite ground troops of Cobra, whose name became a catch-all suffix for specialized units.
Viper is a code-name given to a large majority of the Cobra Troopers in the G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero toyline, comic books and animated series. Introduced in 1986 as a replacement for the Cobra Soldiers, the Cobra Viper infantry soldiers complement the Cobra Soldiers in both the cartoon and comic series. The concept, originally introduced in 1985 with the introduction of "Tele-Vipers" (communication experts), quickly evolved into a catch-all suffix for all future Cobra troops. Hasbro has often alternated between establishing the Vipers as the entry-level position into Cobra's legion, or for them to be the elite of Cobra's ground troops, as far as them being equal to or above the regular soldier troops.
Quick Facts
- Role
- Elite Mercenary Pilot
- Notable rivalry
- Raven
Lore & Background
Vipers are superbly trained, formidably equipped, and highly motivated. They can opt for additional training that enables them to transfer to specialized units, focusing on specific military specialties. These units are considered elite and are constantly examined for effectiveness. Some are renamed and reorganized, absorbed into other units, or sometimes completely phased out.
Some units customize their chain of command, allowing for unique Viper designations with distinct leaders. The first figure to receive the designation "Viper" was the Viper Pilot (included with the Cobra Viper Attack Glider) in 1983. In 1985, Hasbro released the Tele-Viper (Cobra Communications) alongside other Cobra troops without the Viper designation, such as the Snow Serpent (Cobra Polar Assault) and the Eel (Cobra Frogman). For the most part since then, Cobra troops, including drivers and pilots, have had the Viper code name attached to their area of expertise.
The Cobra Soldier figure was the standard infantry trooper for Cobra, until 1986 when Hasbro released the Cobra Viper figure. The Viper's uniform featured a black flak jacket and a mirrored mask that resembled the battle mask worn by Cobra Commander. This figure was later released both as part of the Python Patrol and Sonic Fighters sub-lines of G.I. Joe in alternate colors, in 1989 and 1990 respectively. In 1994 a new standard infantry Viper figure was released with a new look (purple armor with gas mask).
In the G.I. Joe comic book series published by Marvel Comics, this version of the Viper was portrayed in a yellow-gold color. This new uniform did not last long and the more familiar Viper look later returned.
Reader's Guide
Vipers are the backbone of Cobra's ground forces, serving as infantry soldiers equipped with a combination assault rifle and grenade launcher, with advanced night vision, telescopic sight, and range finder. Multi-layered body armor and composite helmets with built-in communications gear are standard issue. Vipers can opt for additional training that enables them to transfer to specialized units, focusing on specific military specialties. The Crimson Guard are the most elite soldiers of Cobra's Viper legions, under the direct command of Tomax and Xamot, but completely loyal to Cobra Commander, serving as his personal guard. Python Patrol is a codename given to a subgroup of Vipers and other Cobra troops whose uniforms have undergone the "pythonization" process, rendering their uniforms immune to radar and other forms of electronic detection.
Elsewhere in Armored Core
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