Kestrel Mk II: Difference between revisions

The Kestrel Mk II continues the series of ships featuring unique modules available only to the Mk II. On the Kestrel Mk II, these are presented as the new "Mk II Maneuvering Thrusters" (not to be confused with the Mk II Gravity-enabled Maneuvering Thrusters for the Caspian Explorer), and a new weapon—the "Plasma Shock Accelerator Mk II" (abbreviated to PShA), which is similar in operation and functionality to a standard [[Shock Cannon]], but fires [[Plasma Slug|Plasma Slugs]] from the [[Fuel Tank|fuel tank]], similar to the experimental "Plasma Railgun" effect. According to initial tests,<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9OzyZC0mwo Elite Dangerous | Plasma Shock Accelerator: damage type check] - Alswulf - 26 Feb 2026 - YouTube</ref> the PShA has 100% absolute damage, unlike classic plasma accelerators, which deal only 60% absolute damage, 20% kinetic damage, and 20% thermal damage. This means that the Kestrel simply ignores any resistance with its unique weapon. However, the PShA significantly heats up the ship when fired intensively over several volleys.

The new engines give it tremendous maneuverability. Many players note that it's too maneuverable, and its sharp turns and trajectory shifts take some getting used to. However, this high maneuverability is only available with [[Boost Speed]]. Without boost, pitch, roll, and yaw will seem mediocre, but still respectable. A basic variant with new, engineer-improved engines and a blueprint, [[Dirty Thrusters|dirty thrusters]] tune will turn the ship in seconds. With afterburners, the Kestrel Mk II has very strong lateral acceleration, similar to that of standard cruise engines. A single Mk II Plasma Shock Accelerator deals 109 absolute damage at 100% per second, and the ship's fuel consumption allows for ammo reserves to be kept under control. The maximum firing range is 3 km, and the armor penetration is 60. Its accuracy doesn't allow for long-range attacks, but the spread isn't particularly wide. A major drawback, which at least brings some balance, is that the Plasma Shock Accelerator Mk II, like the standard [[Shock Cannon]], cannot be upgraded by [[Engineers]]. While they aren't required, the presence of a classic [[Advanced Plasma Accelerator|Plasma Accelerator]] or a [[Pacifier Frag-Cannon]] makes it no less dangerous for humans, and an upgraded [[Enhanced AX Multi-cannon]] is equally dangerous for [[Thargoid|Thargoids]].

Armor and shields, when equipped with modules upgraded by Engineers, such as Shield and Hull Amplifiers, will reach a combined hull integrity of 3,000-5,000. This, combined with its small size and good maneuverability, makes the Kestrel Mk II a very durable ship, and in the hands of an experienced pilot skilled in maneuverable combat, one of the most dangerous ships in the game.

The Kestrel Mk II is a combat ship, and there's no point in using it as an explorer or trader. Its only secondary role is as a racing fighter for dangerous races in tight rings or deep ravines.