Probe Droid

Description

How the Empire found Echo Base

After the Death Star is destroyed, the Empire sends probe droids across the galaxy to track down the Rebel Alliance. The Empire Strikes Back opens with one of them crashing into the snow on Hoth. It drifts over the ice fields, dangling its manipulator arms, and picks up signs of the hidden base. Han Solo and Chewbacca deal with it, but not before it transmits its findings. Soon Darth Vader's fleet arrives, and the Battle of Hoth begins.

A remarkably simple inventory

Just 5 distinct elements make up the 26 pieces, according to the catalogue. That means almost every part appears several times, which is rare even for small sets. The build is correspondingly straightforward: you work with a handful of part types and repeat them. That is a real advantage for very young builders, who do not have to hunt for the right piece. It also means a used copy can be checked in moments.

Two colours, one figure

Only two main colours are listed, white and trans-clear. That is a strikingly minimal palette compared with the black and grey of most Imperial models. The catalogue also counts one minifigure in the set. From a parts point of view, you end up with a small stock of white and clear elements in larger quantities, both useful for your own creations: white for snowscapes, stations or buildings, and clear parts for windows, lights and other see-through details.

Completing the Hoth scene

This page shows all five elements with their colours and exact quantities, so rebuilding the set from loose parts is quick. If you have recorded your collection in Bricoria, What can I build? will list the sets you could complete right now. The probe droid pairs well with other Hoth models such as a snowspeeder or a small Rebel outpost, and it is an easy way to add the Empire's first move to a winter battle display.

FAQ

Where does the probe droid appear?

At the start of The Empire Strikes Back, when it discovers the Rebel base on Hoth.

How many minifigures does set 911838 include?

The catalogue lists one minifigure.

Is this a difficult build?

No. With only 5 distinct elements across 26 pieces, it is one of the simplest builds around.