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Android Bomb

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A self-destruct device implanted inside certain Red Ribbon Androids, capable of producing an explosion powerful enough to threaten even the strongest fighters.

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Design and Function

The Android Bomb is a compact explosive device surgically embedded within the chest cavity of Red Ribbon Androids. Dr. Gero designed these bombs as a fail-safe mechanism, ensuring that any android who defied orders could be eliminated remotely or forced to self-destruct. Each bomb sits near the heart and can be triggered either by the android voluntarily or through an external remote detonator held by Gero or his associates.

The explosive yield of an Android Bomb far exceeds conventional weaponry. Bulma detected abnormally high neutron readings when examining one, suggesting the device operates on principles beyond standard nuclear fission. Some accounts suggest the blast would be sufficient to obliterate the entire planet if detonated at full power.

Notable Incidents

The earliest known Android Bomb belonged to Android 8 during the original Dragon Ball era. Ninja Murasaki attempted to trigger it with a remote detonator as punishment for Android 8's disobedience, but Goku destroyed the detonator before the bomb could activate. The bomb was later surgically removed by Dr. Flappe in the anime.

Android 16 attempted to use his bomb to destroy Cell during the Cell Games, believing the sacrifice would save the Earth. However, Bulma and Dr. Brief had already removed the device while repairing him, leaving Android 16 unable to carry out his plan. This moment proved pivotal, as Android 16's subsequent destruction by Cell pushed Gohan to transform into a Super Saiyan 2.

Androids 17 and 18 had their bombs removed thanks to a wish Krillin made to Shenron following Cell's defeat. In Dragon Ball Super, Android 17 used the memory of his bomb to bluff during the Tournament of Power, creating an explosion that made spectators believe he had self-destructed. He later revealed the deception, reminding Krillin that the bomb had been wished away years earlier.

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This content is original writing by Daddy Jim Headquarters based on the Dragon Ball anime series, manga, and official materials. Episode and chapter references are cited where applicable.

Character and scene imagery on this site is original artwork by Daddy Jim Headquarters, not screenshots or licensed imagery. Official cover art is used on three types of pages for editorial commentary:

  • Movie pages: theatrical posters and key visuals, credited to Toei Animation and Shueisha.
  • Game pages: official box art, credited to Bandai Namco, Atari, and other publishers.
  • Manga chapter pages: Jump Comics volume covers, credited to Shueisha and Akira Toriyama.

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