The Minerva is the first new ZAFT warship constructed since the previous war. Specially designed for use with Second Stage series mobile suits, it is equipped with a deuterion beam transmitter that can instantly recharge these machines, as well as a complex system of hangars and catapults for launching the components of the ZGMF-X56S Impulse Gundam. The Minerva is also a formidable warship in its own right thanks to its powerful weapons, high speed, and ability to enter the atmosphere and operate on Earth.

A unique feature of the Minerva is its two-storey bridge setup; in normal operation the crew members are situated in the "observation bridge" which provides good visibility and spacious room for the captain and crew. When in combat the inside of the bridge section can descend into a smaller "combat bridge", which is more heavily armored to better protect the crew from external attack.