Skyfire is interesting as a character in the
Transformers series as
well as an
action figure. In the comics and as a toy, Skyfire is
actually referred to as
Jetfire.
Skyfire history in series
In the series, Skyfire used to be a Decepticon and apparently good
friends with Starscream of all people. Skyfire transforms into a
fighter/transport plane and is capable of interstellar travel. He is a
scientist by heart. In the series, millions of years before present,
Starscream and Skyfire are charting Earth, but find no intelligent
life. While investigating closer near the north pole, he is caught in
strong cross winds and becomes entrapped in ice. Starscream could not
rescue him. Millions of years later, on Earth, the Decepticons
discover Skyfire. He is revived and is accepted into the ranks. During
confrontations with the Autobots, Skyfire has a moral dilemma upon realizing the true nature of the present day Decepticons and
switches alliances. The former Decepticon is now an Autobot.
The toy
The toy is quite interesting in that it looks identically like the
Robotech Veritech fighter. In fact it is identical to the VF-1S
Super Valkyrie. When Skyfire was introduced, Hasbro decided to use
the Macross valkryrie. The figure was named Jetfire and the same valkryries made by Bandai and Matsushiro were used. The Matsushiro Jetfires actually have
the U.N. Spacey logo on the left wing. The Jetfires are big collector
items these days.
Tech spec
Function: Air Guardian
Group: Autobot
" Among mysteries of science lies the key to victory. "
Strength: 6
Intelligence: 10
Speed: 10
Endurance: 4
Rank: 10
Courage: 9
Firepower: 7
Skill: 9
Swiftest Autobot. Daring in battle... believes victory will come via
technological advancement. Adds twin scramjet modules and liquid
hydrogen fuel tanks to escape Earth's gravity. Flies halfway around
the world in 30 minutes. Carries 4 particle-beam cannons and
heat-seeking photon missiles. Prone to mechanical failures due to
advanced technology.