Towa Sasakura, the base’s chief aircraft mechanic, combines renowned technical mastery of single-engine machines with a stern, no-nonsense attitude toward pilots, who humorously dub her “Mama” despite her disapproval of their impulsive habits. Her precision in tailoring aircraft adjustments to pilot preferences is tempered by limited competence with twin-engine models.

A reserved figure, Towa shares an eight-year bond with Suito Kusanagi, having guided her transition from pilot to commander. This history fuels Towa’s dual role as Kusanagi’s medical caretaker—treating combat wounds—and confidant during crises tied to the Kildren’s ageless existence. Though solitary by nature, residing in a hangar basement, she occasionally reveals dry humor through experimental tinkering or playful exchanges with close allies.

Her mechanical ingenuity shines through abilities to rebuild motorcycles unaided, troubleshoot engine failures, and pioneer experimental fleet upgrades, earning begrudging respect from critics like the Teacher. Pragmatically accepting the Kildren’s cyclical lives, Towa dispenses cryptic philosophical observations to pilots while guarding secrets of Kusanagi’s past, including Jinroh Kurita’s death and the significance of Kannami’s arrival as a possible reincarnation. This awareness sharpens her watchful presence during pilot rotations, notably when a newcomer echoes Kannami’s demeanor post-mission.

In expanded novel roles, Towa frequently advises Yuichi Kannami on mechanics and shared memories of Jinroh, subtly contextualizing Kusanagi’s history. She coordinates logistics for major operations, mediates conflicts among personnel, and fiercely defends Kusanagi’s decisions, responding with visible ire to doubts about her commander’s ethics or motives.