ADU Soldier - Medium Blue, Pointed Teeth (Alien Conquest)
ac001 · Alien Conquest
ADU (Alien Defense Unit) · 2011
Figure ID
ac001
Theme
Alien Conquest
Year Released
2011
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While widely available in 2011 across several sets, the short lifespan of the Alien Conquest theme makes it a prized piece for nostalgia collectors today.
Head
Yellow skin with a unique face print featuring dark wrap-around shades and a wide, grimacing mouth showing pointed teeth. Includes a Medium Blue astronaut/pilot helmet with a Trans-Light Blue visor.
Torso
Medium Blue torso with 'ADU' printed on the chest. The design features a dark blue tactical vest over a flight suit with white and grey mechanical/strap details. Back printing includes continuation of the vest and suit patterns. Light Gray hands.
Legs
Medium Blue legs and hips. High-detail printing includes a dark grey tactical belt, dark blue thigh pockets, and silver/grey knee padding/vents.
Accessories
Standard accessories for this figure when in sets included various sci-fi blasters and occasionally a syringe or specialized tools. The helmet and visor shown are the primary character-specific gear.
Color Scheme
Primary color is Medium Blue, accented by Dark Blue, Light Gray, and Yellow lettering. The Trans-Light Blue visor completes the futuristic 'earth defense' aesthetic.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso (front and back) and the front of the legs. The alignment is typically very consistent, showcasing LEGO's transition to more complex tactical prints during the early 2010s.
Variants
There are several ADU soldier variants, including different face prints (smiling, brown hair, orange shades). This specific version (ac001) is distinguished by the pointed teeth/sneer expression.
Condition Notes
The visor is prone to scratching and friction loss (loosening). Check for torso cracks at the sides and silver ink wear on the belt/knee printing, which can rub off over time.
Estimated Value
Used: $3.00 - $5.00 USD; New: $7.00 - $10.00 USD. Value is stable but parts are often sold individually in bulk lots.
Price (New)
This figure appeared in sets ranging from the Alien Defense Unit Jetpack (7049) at $4.99 to the ADU HQ (7066) at $89.99.
Compatible Sets
7049 Alien Defense Unit Jetpack, 7051 Tripod Invader, 7052 UFO Abduction, 7066 Earth Defense HQ, 853301 Alien Conquest Battle Pack.
Character Background
The ADU (Alien Defense Unit) soldiers are the heroic human faction tasked with repelling an extraterrestrial invasion of Earth. They are portrayed as highly organized and technologically advanced defenders.
Design Notes
The Medium Blue plastic color was a bold choice that separated this theme from older Space themes (Blue/Gray) or City (White). The 'ADU' logo became an iconic part of LEGO's original sci-fi IP.
Similar Minifigures
Other ADU members like ac002 or ac003, Galaxy Squad soldiers, and classic Space Police III officers.
Collectibility
Moderate. It is a staple for fans of 'retro-futurism' and original LEGO themes. While not an investment powerhouse, it is essential for completing the Alien Conquest lineup.
History
Alien Conquest launched in 2011 as a successor to Space Police III and Mars Mission. It was one of the last major 'alien invasion' style themes before LEGO began leaning more heavily into licensed themes like Marvel and Star Wars.
Interesting Facts
The ADU logo and design language were actually Easter-egged into the LEGO City 'Undercover' video game. The theme was notable for its heavy use of light-and-sound bricks and 'human abduction' play features.
Display Suggestions
Looks best in a military formation alongside a 7066 Earth Defense HQ or displayed in a lineup showing the various ADU facial expressions. UV protection is recommended to prevent the Medium Blue from yellowing.
Modification Potential
The tactical torso and legs are popular for MOC creators building futuristic soldiers, police, or Halo-style UNSC marines due to the neutral but detailed color palette.
Overall Assessment
An excellent example of LEGO's high-detail printing era. It offers great value for the price and remains a distinctive part of LEGO's non-licensed sci-fi history.