Talia Gladys commands the ZAFT warship Minerva, exhibiting exceptional tactical judgment and adaptability during unexpected battles. Her leadership effectively guides the ship's young and inexperienced crew through complex military engagements, maintaining a composed and determined demeanor that embodies veteran courage.

Her past includes a romantic relationship with PLANT Chairman Gilbert Durandal. Despite this connection, she develops critical reservations about his decisions as the conflict intensifies, questioning his motivations and strategic choices concerning the escalating war and his controversial Destiny Plan.

Talia commands the Minerva through critical operations: responding to mobile suit theft at Armory One, pursuing the Phantom Pain task force, and participating in Junius Seven debris crisis prevention. Her ship engages in numerous battles against Earth Alliance forces, Orb Union units, and dissident factions.

As Durandal's actions grow increasingly extreme—deploying the Requiem superweapon and implementing the genetically deterministic Destiny Plan—Talia's skepticism deepens. Her moral conflict culminates in the final battle when she confronts Durandal aboard the space station Messiah, witnessing Rey Za Burrel turn against and kill him.

In the aftermath, as the damaged Messiah faces destruction from Requiem's firing, Talia chooses to remain. She ensures the escape of Athrun Zala and Meyrin Hawke, shielding Meyrin from falling debris during their evacuation. This decision results in her death when Requiem's attack destroys the station.

Her command consistently prioritizes crew safety and mission objectives, navigating complex loyalties and ethical challenges stemming from her past connection to Durandal and ZAFT's wartime actions.