Zartan is the leader of the Dreadnoks and a mercenary for Cobra Commander. Though much of his background is unknown, much like Snake Eyes, he is believed to have had extensive military training at a European academy. He is a master of disguise, able to change his skin color to blend into his environment. He is also a martial artist, polyglot and ventriloquist, thus remaining a tough opponent for the G.I.JOE's. He was first introduced in Marvel Comics G.I.Joe: A Real American Hero #24 and fully introduced in the next issue #25 in July of 1984.