Kestrel Mk II

The Kestrel Mk II is a small combat ship produced by Core Dynamics. Early access purchase with ARX began on 24 February 2026. It becomes purchasable with credits for all Odyssey owners after 3 months.

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

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: Outfitting

TBA

Development

The Kestrel Mk II was unveiled during the Developer Log on 16 February 2026.

Videos

• File:Elite Dangerous - Developer Log - 16 February 2026
• File:Elite Dangerous- Kestrel Mk. II - Available Now
• File:Elite Dangerous - Kestrel MkII- comparison to FDL, Cobra MkV. Performance tests. MkII modules review
• File:Elite Dangerous - more Kestrel's MkII combat builds and tests

Gallery

• 
  Kestrel Mk II at a Gas Giant
• 
  Kestrel Mk II with weapons
• 
  Kestrel Mk II Features

References

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