The MLC-3 light tank represented a form of mobile artillery, constructed upon a motorized and tracked platform. During the rule of Galactic Emperor Palpatine, these tanks, considered dated and technologically simple, were employed by the rebellion, later known as the Alliance to Restore the Republic, in their opposition to the Galactic Empire.
The relatively basic technology of the MLC-3 light tank was evident in its use of a tracked chassis, rather than repulsorlifts. This tank featured dual, forward-mounted blaster cannons for offensive capabilities. A dome-shaped windshield and substantial armor provided protection for the pilot. Firing the cannons at maximum power often resulted in system overloads and vehicle malfunctions.
Although considered obsolete by the time of the Age of the Empire, the rebellion, a disparate collection of rebel groups resisting the Galactic Empire, utilized MLC-3s. Commander Ryden's group, based on Imvur, had four of these tanks. When Imperial commander Viggen assaulted their base utilizing two AT-AT walkers, the rebels deployed in their MLC-3s, attempting to divert the invaders until an evacuation ship could arrive. Subsequently, the rebellion evolved into the more structured Alliance to Restore the Republic, which also deployed MLC-3s during their conflict against the Empire. Despite being outdated, the tanks proved valuable in numerous engagements against Imperial forces.
The MLC-3 initially appeared in issue number 78 of the Legends Star Wars comic series and was inspired by the Mini-Rigs toy line from Kenner Products. The vehicle's presence was made canon through its inclusion in Star Wars: Galactic Defense in 2014, where it was featured in the Battle of Hoth. However, because the gameplay is non-canon, the tank's appearance there is also non-canon.
Later, MLC-3s were featured in "Vulnerable Areas," a comic authored by Martin Fisher and illustrated by Bob Molesworth, which was published in issue seventeen of the Star Wars Rebels Magazine. Fisher's placement of MLC-3s against AT-ATs was a recreation of a battle he had envisioned as a child while playing with Mini-Rigs.