The Sapin Air Force 9th Air and Land Division, 11th Tactical Fighter Squadron is seen in Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War. The Espada fly one J35J Draken and one Rafale M in a two ship formation. Their combat style relies on the two pilots to be in perfect timing with each other.
History
Like multiple units from Yuktobania, Belka, Ustio and Osea, the Espada Squadron had disappeared from the frontlines of the Belkan War. When they later resurfaced, it was confirmed that they had joined the organization "A World With No Boundaries" for their own personal reasons.
The Espada Squadron was engaged by the Ustian 6th Air Division's 66th Air Force Unit "Galm", after the XB-0 attacked the 'South Belkan' city of Lumen and later, Valais Air Base. As the Hresvelgr flew North, past Steir Castle in Belka, presumably going towards Avalon Dam, the Galm Team appeared on the battlefield. The Espada engaged the Galm Team, but was shot down within the first stage of the battle. Later, the XB-0 was brought down as well.
Members
Alberto Lopez
Flight leader of Espada Team. Rumored to have a long-time relationship with his wingman. Shot down during Operation Valkyrie; while his death is inevitable, Alberto's fate can change, depending on the player's Ace style.
Marcela Vasquez
Marcela Vasquez, second wing of the 11th TFS Espada. Rumored to have a deep relationship with former flight commander Alberto Lopez. Followed him through his desertion to A World With No Boundaries. Shot down defending AWWNB's heavy command cruiser XB-0 Hresvelgr. She retired after the Belkan War, after which she became a dancer in her native country of Sapin.
Trivia
- The word 'Espada' translates to 'Sword' in English. In Spanish bullfighting, matadors will use a sword to deliver the killing blow to the bull, and the Espada Team's emblem features a bull impaled by several swords.
- In the reveal trailer, Espada was supposed to only use the J35J Drakens, aside from Espada 1 using the Draken and Espada 2 using the Rafale M.
(From left to right) First frame is Espada 1. Next frame is Espada 2, showing that the supposed aircraft are only Drakens