Air racer and stunt pilot Hikaru Ichijo and his 'sempai' (mentor) Major Roy Fokker attempt a daring rescue mission when South Atalia Island is invaded and bombarded by Zentradi forces. Hikaru has his first encounter with Lynn Minmay, a young waitress, as Zentradi mecha begin raiding the city. Meanwhile, Captain Bruno J. Global, Lieutenant Misa Hayase, Bridge Operator Claudia LaSalle, and the crew of the Macross attempt to launch the ship for the first time.