Imperial Hovertank Pilot
sw0796 · Star Wars
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story · 2016 (Released in set 75152 Imperial Assault Hovertank during the Rogue One launch wave)
Figure ID
sw0796
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2016 (Released in set 75152 Imperial Assault Hovertank during the Rogue One launch wave)
Rarity
Uncommon. This figure only appeared in a single set (75152). While not extremely rare in the secondary market, it is desirable because it is the only source for this specific armor variant.
Head
Standard Star Wars Clone/Trooper flesh head with a determined expression. It features a unique Imperial Hovertank Pilot helmet mold in white with black and grey printed details including the visor and respirator ports.
Torso
White torso with highly detailed armor plating print. Design includes a chest plate, utility belt, and mechanical detailing in grey/black. The back is also printed with armor plating components.
Legs
White legs with hips. Features cohesive armor plating printing on the front of the legs and hips, continuing the tactical look of the torso. No side or back leg printing is present.
Accessories
Typically includes a black standard blaster or blaster pistol (missing in the image). The helmet is the primary specialized accessory element.
Color Scheme
Monochromatic white and light bluish grey base with black accent printing to indicate gaps in armor and mechanical components.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing typical of the mid-2010s. Includes chest, back, and leg printing. The helmet mold involves complex printing to align with his eye visor and breathing apparatus.
Variants
There are no official LEGO variants of sw0796; however, the helmet mold was later reused and recolored for the Shoretrooper (Desert Shore Trooper) variants.
Condition Notes
Prone to yellowing if exposed to UV light due to the white plastic. Stress marks can occur on the torso sides (cracks) and the neck post if the helmet is removed frequently.
Estimated Value
Used: $8.00 - $12.00 USD. New: $15.00 - $20.00 USD. Value remains stable due to the popularity of Rogue One era troopers.
Price (New)
The set 75152 Imperial Assault Hovertank originally retailed for $29.99 USD in 2016, which included two of these pilots.
Compatible Sets
75152 Imperial Assault Hovertank (2016).
Character Background
Also known as Imperial Coastal Defense Stormtroopers assigned to piloting the TX-225 GAVw 'Occupier' combat assault tanks, first seen on Jedha in 'Rogue One'.
Design Notes
This figure marked the debut of a brand-new helmet mold that perfectly captured the 'flat-face' aesthetic seen in the film, bridging the design gap between a standard Stormtrooper and a Shoretrooper.
Similar Minifigures
sw0787 Shoretrooper (Scarif Stormtrooper), sw0825 Shoretrooper Squad Leader, sw0585 Stormtrooper (Rebels variant).
Collectibility
High for 'Trooper' collectors. Imperial army builders often seek this figure for Jedha dioramas. Its single-set status keeps it relevant for investment.
History
Part of the first wave of Star Wars sets released to celebrate the first stand-alone Star Wars film. It represents the evolution of LEGO's commitment to movie-accurate specialized trooper types.
Interesting Facts
The helmet design is technically a variant of the Shoretrooper armor, but in the white 'Occupier' pilot configuration, making it one of the most specialized Imperial minifigures.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the 75152 Hovertank or in a Jedha City street scene with Chirrut Îmwe and standard Stormtroopers.
Modification Potential
Excellent for custom 'Purist' troopers. The helmet can be used for custom pilots or naval officers. Compatible with third-party fabric pauldrons to denote rank.
Overall Assessment
A standout trooper design from the Disney era of LEGO Star Wars. Detailed printing and a unique helmet mold make it a must-have for Imperial completionists.