Cyberman android
The Cyberman androids were a pair of tall, black androids used by the Neomorph Cybermen when they planned Earth's destruction in 2526.
Characteristics
The androids made a distinctive whine and were not detectable by scanners. Their right hands had weapons embedded in them that could turn a human into a boiling puddle of molten flesh. They were fitted with monitoring so that the Cybermen could receive the images; the Cyber-Leader was also able to communicate with them. The androids were highly resistant to energy weapons and could only be destroyed by concentrated fire.
They were programmed both for survival and to strictly follow their programming. If they were damaged they would not take unnecessary risks. (TV: Earthshock)
History
In 2526, the CyberNeomorphs had hidden a bomb within a cave system on Earth, planning to detonate it to destroy the planet. While an expedition team was studying the caves, the androids were created to guard the hatch which held the bomb.
A conflict between the androids' duty and survival allowed the Fifth Doctor to confuse them by having Lieutenant Scott's men fire at the hatch (i.e., what they were programmed to protect). In their confusion, Adric was able to distract the first android long enough for Scott and his team to destroy it. The second android was subjected to an intense fire attack, also resulting in its destruction. (TV: Earthshock)
Behind the scenes
- The Cyberman android costume were re-painted and used as the Raston Warrior Robot costume — a rather amusing turn of events, as the Raston Warrior Robot is a staunch enemy of the Cybermen, mostly seen destroying a number of them.
- The androids were played by Barney Lawrence and Carolyn Mary Simmonds, who remained uncredited both on-screen and in Radio Times.[1]
