The Elite Dangerous update introduces the Core Dynamics Kestrel Mk II, a highly agile and combat-effective small ship available in three variants, launching for ARCs early access on February 24th, 2026, with in-game availability following about three months later. Alongside the ship release, the update includes new modules, significant audio enhancements, bug fixes, and quality-of-life improvements aimed at enriching both ship combat and on-foot gameplay experiences.
In this Elite Dangerous update video, Ricardo introduces the highly anticipated release of the Core Dynamics Kestrel Mk II, set to launch for ARCs early access on February 24th, 2026, with in-game availability expected roughly three months later. He highlights the excitement around this nimble, small ship, emphasizing its impressive firepower with three large and two small hardpoints, making it surprisingly effective in combat against larger ships like Anacondas. Ricardo shares his personal experience with the ship, praising its agility and potential to enhance dogfighting, PvP, and PvE gameplay within Elite Dangerous.
The Kestrel Mk II comes in three variants: Standard, Stellar, and Galactic. The Standard model is the most affordable at 16,520 ARCs and offers a barebones experience. The Stellar version, priced at 33,000 ARCs, includes a stylish paint job, a ship kit, and additional modules. The top-tier Galactic variant costs 60,000 ARCs and bundles everything from the Stellar package plus extra ship kits and exclusive decals, making it the most premium and expensive option. Ricardo compares this pricing to the Caspian Explorer’s Galactic version, noting the Kestrel Mk II’s higher cost but enhanced offerings.
Beyond the ship release, the update introduces new modules like the Mk II agile boost thrusters for improved maneuverability and the Mk II plasma shock accelerator. There are also significant audio enhancements focused on on-foot combat and environmental sounds, including refreshed weapon audio for specific guns and improved natural reverbs in settlement and outdoor areas. These audio improvements aim to enrich the Odyssey base gameplay experience, with a hopeful nod to upcoming operations content expected in April.
Several bug fixes and quality-of-life improvements accompany this update. Notable fixes include resolving issues with the Caspian Explorer’s cargo scooping, correcting CQC rank rewards, and addressing stuck NPC crew ranks. Texture adjustments were made to festive jumpers and Caspian Explorer ship kits, while problems with power play commodity storage, squadron bank functionality, side decal displays, and weapon autoloader UI behavior were also corrected. Additionally, audio glitches related to long-range explosions and ship exit interactions were fixed.
Ricardo concludes by inviting viewers to share their thoughts on the Kestrel Mk II and which variant they might purchase, expressing curiosity about the community’s preferences. He underscores that while the update primarily focuses on the Kestrel Mk II, the various audio and graphical tweaks contribute to a broader refinement of the game experience. Overall, the update promises to bring fresh excitement and improvements to Elite Dangerous, particularly for players interested in small, agile combat ships.