There are a number of prodigious firebenders in the world of The Legend of Korra, the fierce military leader demonstrated competence, cool-headedness, and a mastery of his powers that would make his namesake proud.
The introduction of General Iroh, voiced by Dante Basco, was met with excitement from fans, happy to discover the actor was playing the descendent of Zuko, a role that Basco had performed previously in Avatar: The Last Airbender. Born to Izumi, Zuko's daughter, Iroh II began his training at an early age and eventually earned the distinction of becoming the youngest general in the United Forces, taking care to protect the Aang-made United Republic.
The sovereign state remained in General Iroh's capable hands, as seen with successful destruction of five hostile Equalist aircraft set on upsetting the balance within Republic City. Like the original Iroh, Legend of Korra's General Iroh showcased his firebending powers in some spectacular scenes, proving his fortitude.
General Firebending
General Iroh demonstrated a wide array of typical firebending abilities during his few cameos in The Legend of Korra. In season 1, episode 11, "Skeletons in the Closet", Iroh, defending his fleet, demonstrated his skill by launching fiery blasts toward his airborne attackers. Rapidly punching and kicking, the flames generated by Iroh managed to hit even the most difficult of targets. The leader also survived a close-range explosion, possibly using his firebending to protect himself by redirecting the flames let off by an enemy's bomb. After this introduction, Iroh's full arsenal of firebending moves would be more fully fleshed out with a variety of sub-skills, putting him on par with the likes of his grandfather, great-uncle, and great-aunt Azula.
Lightningbending
In the second episode in which he appears, "Endgame", General Iroh's ease with lightning generation is on full display as he manages to single-handedly intercept military airplanes. During an exciting two-minute aerial scene, Zuko's grandson manages to ground two of the enemy aircraft with well-placed bolts of electricity, effectively putting the planes out of commission. Since Avatar: The Last Airbender had previously established the difficulties and dangers surrounding the sub-skill, Iroh's mastery over lightningbending is notable and further points to his proficiency as a warrior and bending artist.
Jet Propulsion
Iroh is one of the few firebenders who can simulate flight through the use of jet propulsions. Formerly displayed by his great-aunt Azula, some master-level firebenders are capable of generating huge flames which, when directed at high speeds behind the bender, allow for temporary levitation. Jet propulsion requires an extensive energy output and typically lasts for only short periods of time, unless the firebender's power is augmented by the presence of Sozin's Comet. However, even without the celestial object, General Iroh managed to propel himself into the air while pursuing enemy planes, effectively flying from one to another as they were neutralized.
The inclusion of General Iroh II in The Legend of Korra connected some missing dots from Avatar: The Last Airbender, especially since Zuko's fate was largely shrouded in mystery during the sequel series' first season. With his varied abilities, creativity, and the tactical brilliance worthy of his title, General Iroh has ed the top ranks of his impressively skilled firebending family. It is no doubt that his namesake would be proud.
