Kestrel Mk II
 | Parts of this article have been identified as out of date. Please update this article to reflect the current version of the game, and remove this template when finished. |
The Kestrel is a purpose-built combat fighter engineered for speed, agility and lethal efficiency. Its compact frame and high-thrust maneuverability make it exceptionally effective in close-combat, interception, and rapid strike operations. The ship's sharper handling and turn of speed is also complemented with its ability to handle supercharged FSDs. In the hands of a skilled fighter pilot the Kestrel will prove itself to be unmatched.
— In-Game Description
The Kestrel Mk II is a small combat ship produced by Core Dynamics. Early access purchase with ARX began on 24 February 2026.[1][2] It becomes purchasable with credits for all Odyssey owners after 3 months.[1]
Overview
The Kestrel Mk II is a reimagining of the original Kestrel Airfighter of Frontier: Elite II. The Kestrel was derived from an atmospheric fighter and featured high marks for acceleration. It was often used as a fast courier or, in large numbers, a planetary attack craft.
The cockpit has 1 pilot seat and is similar to the Eagle. The weapon hardpoints are located as follows: two class 1 hardpoints in front of the cockpit, one class 3 hardpoint above and behind the cockpit and two side-mounted class 3 hardpoints under the lower wings.
Purchase Locations
| System | Station | Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shinrarta Dezhra | Jameson Memorial | Always available | 10% discount, Founders Permit needed |
Outfitting
- Main article: OutfittingAll ships are highly customizable through the Outfitting menu of Station Services. Listed below is the default load-out for the Kestrel Mk II.
| Category | Default System | Default Rating | Default Class | Max Class |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small Hardpoint | Pulse Laser | -- | -- | -- |
| Pulse Laser | -- | -- | -- | |
| Medium Hardpoint | Empty | -- | -- | -- |
| Empty | -- | -- | -- | |
| Empty | -- | -- | -- | |
| Utility Mount | Empty | -- | -- | -- |
| Empty | -- | -- | -- | |
| Empty | -- | -- | -- | |
| Empty | -- | -- | -- | |
| Bulkheads | Lightweight Alloys | -- | -- | -- |
| Reactor Bay | Power Plant | -- | -- | -- |
| Thrusters Mounting | Thrusters | -- | -- | -- |
| Frame Shift Drive Housing | Frame Shift Drive (SCO) | -- | -- | -- |
| Environment Control | Life Support | -- | -- | -- |
| Power Coupling | Power Distributor | -- | -- | -- |
| Sensor Suite | Sensors | -- | -- | -- |
| Fuel Store | Fuel Tank [x16] | -- | -- | -- |
| Internal Compartments | Shield Generator | -- | -- | -- |
| Empty | -- | -- | -- | |
| Cargo Rack [x8] | -- | -- | -- | |
| Empty | -- | -- | -- | |
| Cargo Rack [x4] | -- | -- | -- | |
| Empty | -- | -- | -- | |
| Empty | -- | -- | -- | |
| Advanced Docking Computer | -- | -- | -- | |
| Supercruise Assist | -- | -- | -- | |
| (PAS) | -- | -- | -- |
- (L) = Loaned Module
- [x#] = Capacity
- (PAS) = Reserved solely for the Planetary Approach Suite or Advanced Planetary Approach Suite
Development
The Kestrel Mk II was unveiled during the Developer Log on 16 February 2026.[1]
Videos
Gallery
Kestrel Mk II at a Gas Giant
Kestrel Mk II with weapons
Kestrel Mk II Features
References
- 1 2 3 Elite Dangerous | Developer Log - 16 February 2026 - YouTube
- ↑ Elite Dangerous | Kestrel Mk II Update Out Now! - 24 Feb 2026 - Frontier Forums
| Flyable |
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| NPC-only |
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lore & Concepts | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Ships marked with H can only be purchased and operated by players who pre-ordered Horizons. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||