Python Patrol

The Python Patrol is an elite unit within the Cobra Organization. They have special uniforms that masks their presence to electronic detection systems. They were first introduced in 1989 and in 2003 new figures were released as part of Python Patrol.

Action Figures

Python Patrol was first released in 1989 and consisted of six repainted Cobra figures in a green, yellow, black and red color scheme.
*Python Copperhead
*Python Officers
*Python Vipers
*Tele-Vipers
*Python Crimson Guard
*Python Troopers

A set of three vehicles were also released in a red and black cross hatched color scheme, mimicking the scales of a python:
*A.S.P.
*Conquest
*STUN

Two international figures were released in Brazil called Gathilo and Relampago,as well as a vehicle, the Nija-Hidro Helicoptero.

With the revival of G.I. Joe in early 2001, a Toys R Us exclusive set was released. This time however the color scheme was based on the 1989 vehicle color scheme rather than green and yellow camouflage.
*Major Bludd
*Laser Vipers
*H.E.A.T. Vipers
*Lampreys
*S.A.W. Vipers
*Rock Vipers

In 2004 a two pack featuring a Viper and a Tele-Viper was also released as part of the Valor Vs. Venom line in Python Patrol uniforms but the packaging and the file cards makes no reference of these figures being in the Python Patrol.

Comics

Python Patrol was introduced in issue #88 of the original Marvel Comics run. They appeared in issues #99, #100, and Special Missions #28.

Cartoon

The same year Python Patrol released Hasbro contracted DIC to produce a new G.I. Joe cartoon. Operation: Dragonfire mini-series came after a two year hiatus of no new cartoons. It followed the Sunbow continuity. Unhappy with Serpentor's leadership, the Baroness and Gnawghyde, kidnap Cobra Commander who is still a snake as result of being exposed to mutating spores in Cobra-La. After capturing him they use the Dragon Fire mask to return him to human form. He uses the masks to create Python Patrol. Afterwards, they helped Cobra Commander regain control of Cobra from Serpentor.

External links

* [http://www.yojoe.com/action/subteams/pythonpatrol.shtml Yojoe.com Python Patrol page]
* [http://www.yojoe.com/action/04/televiper4.shtml Tele Viper (2004)]
* [http://www.yojoe.com/action/04/viper12.shtml Viper (2004)]
* [http://www.geocities.com/cartoonresource/gijoe.html G.I. Joe Cartoon Resource website]