Clone ARF Trooper (Advanced Recon Force Trooper)
sw0297 · Star Wars
Star Wars: The Clone Wars · 2011 - Debuted in the Clone Trooper Battle Pack (set 7913) during a peak era of The Clone Wars animated series expansion in LEGO.
Figure ID
sw0297
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2011 - Debuted in the Clone Trooper Battle Pack (set 7913) during a peak era of The Clone Wars animated series expansion in LEGO.
Rarity
Uncommon. While widely available in a battle pack at release, the ARF trooper mold was produced for a shorter duration compared to standard Phase 1 or 2 clones, making it highly sought after today.
Head
Standard 'Clone Cadet/Trooper' head with a stern expression, shared across most 2010-2013 Clone Wars sets. The helmet is the standout: a unique ARF mold with a prominent visor and detailed breathing apparatus printing.
Torso
White torso with Clone Wars-style armor printing. Features a distinct yellowish-orange vertical stripe down the center and gray belt detailing. Back printing matches the armor plating and thermal detonator design.
Legs
Plain white legs with a black hip piece. No printing on the legs, which was standard for basic troopers in the 2011 era battle packs.
Accessories
Typically came with a standard black medium blaster (DC-15S). The helmet itself is the primary accessory element but is considered part of the figure's core design.
Color Scheme
Primary white with black joints/visor. Accents include yellowish-orange, dark gray, and sand green on the helmet filters.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the helmet and torso. The helmet printing is particularly intricate, featuring venting, visor outlines, and green-grey filter details that are often perfectly aligned.
Variants
This is the classic version. Variants include an elite version (sw0378) from set 9488 and a highly rare Shadow ARF Trooper promotional polybag (sw0315) produced in chrome black.
Condition Notes
Watch for 'play wear' on the helmet's nose printing. The white plastic is prone to yellowing if exposed to sunlight. Check for torso cracks under the arms and neck.
Estimated Value
Used: $12 - $18 USD; New/Mint: $25 - $35 USD. Prices fluctuate based on the volume of army building in the current market.
Price (New)
Original set 7913 retail price was $11.99 USD, which included four minifigures, making the individual value at release roughly $3.00.
Compatible Sets
7913 Clone Trooper Battle Pack (2011).
Character Background
Advanced Recon Force Troopers were specialized clones used for scouting and reconnaissance. They were prominently featured in The Clone Wars, notably during the Battle of Geonosis and the Umbara campaign.
Design Notes
The ARF trooper helmet is a unique mold that captures the 'beak-like' look of the animated series counterpart perfectly. It represents a shift towards more specialized trooper classes in the LEGO line.
Similar Minifigures
Elite Clone Trooper (sw0378), Shadow ARF Trooper (sw0315), and various Commander Gree versions due to similar camo or specialized helmet vibes.
Collectibility
High. Clone Trooper variants are the backbone of the LEGO Star Wars secondary market. Army builders often buy these in quantities of 10 or more, keeping demand high and supply steady.
History
Launched in 2011 as part of the new 'Battle Pack' strategy to provide variants beyond standard troopers. This specific mold helped bridge the gap between Phase 1 and specialized armor units.
Interesting Facts
The ARF trooper helmet is one of the few from the Clone Wars era that is frequently used by MOC (My Own Creation) builders for futuristic sci-fi soldiers because of its sleek, realistic design.
Display Suggestions
Looks best placed on a BARC Speeder or in a desert/jungle terrain diorama. Groups of three or more create a convincing reconnaissance squad aesthetic.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'purist' customs; the helmet fits well on different torsos to create diverse specialized units. Compatible with BrickArms or Clone Republic custom weaponry.
Overall Assessment
A quintessential 'must-have' for Clone Wars collectors. It offers a unique silhouette compared to the standard 'bucket' helmets and holds its value exceptionally well for a battle pack figure.