Imperial V-wing Pilot
sw0304 · Star Wars
Expanded Universe/The Clone Wars · 2011 - Debuted in Set 7915 Imperial V-wing Starfighter; released during the transition between Prequel and Original Trilogy aesthetic designs.
Figure ID
sw0304
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2011 - Debuted in Set 7915 Imperial V-wing Starfighter; released during the transition between Prequel and Original Trilogy aesthetic designs.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While not a limited promotion, it was exclusive to a single set that had a relatively short shelf life compared to X-wing or TIE Fighter sets.
Head
Light Flesh head with orange-tinted flight goggles and a pilot's headset/microphone printed on the front. It features a standard focused expression.
Torso
White torso with detailed flight suit printing. Features a life support box with gray, red, and blue buttons, and two large dark gray breathing hoses that extend from the chest to the shoulders.
Legs
White legs with dark bluish gray hips. Printing includes flight suit harness straps and pocket details in gray and black on the front of the legs.
Accessories
Equipped with a Black Small Blaster (frequently referred to as a 'dh-17 style' or standard short blaster). The helmet is a unique white mold with a red vertical stripe and detailed Imperial insignia.
Color Scheme
Primary White with Light Bluish Gray and Dark Bluish Gray accents. Notable for the red and yellow stripes on the helmet, signaling its 'Interim' status between Clone and Imperial eras.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the helmet, torso, and legs. This figure was part of the era where LEGO significantly increased the complexity of Star Wars pilot webbing and mechanical details.
Variants
This is the only version of this specific character. It differs from standard TIE Pilots (black) and Clone Pilots (yellow/ARC-170 styles) by utilizing the unique white and gray hybrid scheme.
Condition Notes
The white plastic is susceptible to yellowing if exposed to UV light. The printed Imperial logos on the helmet are the most common points for scratch wear. Check for 'arm cracks' at the torso seams.
Estimated Value
Used complete: $15 - $25; New/Mint: $30 - $45. Prices fluctuate based on the condition of the specific helmet printing, which is the most valuable component.
Price (New)
Set 7915 originally retailed for $19.99 USD in 2011. The price-per-minifigure ratio was approximately $10 (set included 2 figures).
Compatible Sets
7915 Imperial V-wing Starfighter (2011).
Character Background
The V-wing pilots served in the newly formed Galactic Empire immediately following Order 66. They represent the bridge between the Republic's ARC-170/V-19 pilots and the later TIE Fighter corps.
Design Notes
Features a specialized helmet mold that combines the Clone Pilot (Open-faced) logic with the breathing apparatus that would eventually become the TIE Pilot's life support system.
Similar Minifigures
sw0266 (Clone Pilot with yellow markings), sw0634 (Imperial TIE Fighter Pilot), sw0504 (Clone Pilot Microfighter).
Collectibility
High demand for 'Troop Builders' and collectors focusing on the transition from Republic to Empire. It is considered an essential bridge piece for a chronologically accurate Star Wars collection.
History
Released during the 'Shadow of the Empire' era of marketing where LEGO explored EU and interim vehicles. It marked a shift toward more muted, 'Imperial' colors on Republic-style ship molds.
Interesting Facts
The helmet design is one of the few 'open face' Imperial pilot molds where you can still see the pilot's eyes through the visor, a trait mostly lost in later TIE Pilot designs.
Display Suggestions
Ideally displayed next to a standard TIE Pilot and a Phase 2 Clone Pilot to show the evolutionary design path. Use a clear 1x2 brick to elevate him as if in flight.
Modification Potential
Great for purist customs of 'Imperial Remnant' or 'Early Empire' officers. The legs and torso are frequently used by MOC builders for generic sci-fi medical or tech personnel.
Overall Assessment
A standout figure of the 2011 wave. Its unique helmet and crisp printing make it a high-tier collectible for Star Wars fans. Rated 8/10 for design accuracy and 7/10 for investment value.