Joe (G-2), alias Joe the Condor, holds the position of second-in-command, marksman, and weapons expert within the Science Ninja Team. Born George Asakura on BC Island to Japanese-Italian parents Giuseppe and Caterina Asakura, his life changed irrevocably at age eight. His parents, high-ranking Galactor operatives planning defection, were assassinated by the organization. Rescued by Dr. Kozaburo Nambu, Joe's death was faked to shield him from Galactor; Nambu renamed him and became his guardian. This trauma ignited Joe's intense hatred for Galactor and fueled his relentless quest for vengeance. Initially, Joe repressed memories of his parents' Galactor affiliation, recalling only their murder. Later recollection of their true roles slightly softened his worldview, though his determination remained undiminished. Trained by Dr. Nambu in Science Ninja techniques from age 13, he honed exceptional combat, driving, and marksmanship skills. His signature weapons are a versatile grappling-hook pistol (firing bullets, deploying hooks, or functioning as a drill) and feather shurikens. His vehicle, the G-2, transforms from a Formula One-inspired civilian car (a 2000CC stock car or, in the OVA, a Shelby Cobra) into a high-speed combat racer capable of wall traversal and water hovering; it docks into the God Phoenix's nose to access weaponry and received a gatling gun upgrade in episode 68. Personality-wise, Joe is headstrong, cynical, and quicker to violence than his teammates. He frequently clashes with leader Ken Washio over strategy, preferring aggression over defense. Despite his loner demeanor and occasional solo missions, he possesses deep loyalty to the team. His relationship with Dr. Nambu mixes gratitude with friction, while his rivalry with Ken masks mutual respect and a shared childhood history. Romantic connections often end tragically, reinforcing his isolation. During the original series, Joe developed a terminal illness stemming from head injuries, causing dizziness and light sensitivity. Knowing his time was limited, he intensified his efforts against Galactor. In the finale, he sacrificed himself to expose Galactor's headquarters, disappearing after confronting Berg Katse; his body was never recovered, though his signature boomerang remained. He returned in the sequel series *Gatchaman II* as a cyborg, rebuilt by Dr. Rafael. Initially concealing his mechanical enhancements due to the team's bias against cyborgs, he grappled with his humanity but gained acceptance. His cyborg state enabled him to survive otherwise fatal missions, though he retained his sacrificial mindset. Alternate continuities present variations: the "Condor Flies!" light novel depicts him as a genetically engineered subject with implanted memories, coveted by both Galactor and ISO. The 1994 OVA reimagines him with auburn hair, a muscular physique, a crucifix necklace, and a Bird Style uniform altered to navy blue with burgundy accents; his vehicle became a Batmobile-like Shelby Cobra. The cancelled Imagi film project planned a more rebellious, lone-wolf portrayal resistant to joining the team. In *Infini-T Force*, he appears without cyborg elements, sporting a ponytail and a redesigned uniform.