Mobile Police Patlabor is one of those classic mecha franchises that has remained relatively dormant for years. While occasional merchandise releases such as the MODEROID kits have kept the name alive, the last major release into the model kit scene was likely Bandai’s 3,000-yen Master Grade from the early 2000s. Fast forward to 2026, and seemingly out of nowhere, Bandai has announced a brand-new kit of the iconic AV-98 Ingram, this time in Real Grade format. Scheduled for release in June 2026 at 5,500 yen, the RG Ingram represents a significant and somewhat unexpected upgrade for the franchise.
Seeing a non-Gundam property receive the Real Grade treatment is rare and noteworthy. Typically, only popular titles such as Gaogaigar or Neon Genesis Evangelion are granted Bandai’s most advanced engineering model kit treatment. The timing likely ties into promotional momentum for the upcoming anime project, Patlabor EZY. Regardless of the marketing strategy behind it, receiving what may become the definitive modern rendition of Yutaka Izubuchi’s iconic police Labor is more than welcome.
In terms of value, the RG AV-98 Ingram looks highly promising. The surface detailing appears to surpass the dated Master Grade by a wide margin, and articulation should benefit greatly from the Real Grade’s more advanced frame engineering. Notably, the kit also seems to include an LED unit for the shoulder-mounted headlight—a feature that enhances both accuracy and display presence.
If Bandai willing to invest on Patlabor series, RG rendition of the Griffon would be an exciting prospect. For long-time Patlabor fans, this release feels like a long-overdue revival yet something that can be looked forward to.
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