Kestrel
[Lore sourced from Frigates of EVE book]
![[Lore sourced from Frigates of EVE book]](https://puu.sh/E8tAe/b6748a3969.jpg){kind=link}
Current Description
The Kestrel is a heavy missile boat with one of the most sophisticated sensor arrays around. Interestingly enough, it has been used by both the Caldari Navy and several wealthy trade corporations as a cargo-hauling vessel. It is one of few trading vessels with good punching power, making it ideal for solo trade-runs in dangerous areas. The Kestrel was designed so that it could take up to four missile launchers but as a result it can not be equipped with turret weapons nor with mining lasers.
Submission Description
The Kestrel is many things, to name a few - To the upstart mercenary? A ship that’s their ticket to wealth and fame. To the ruthless pirate? A ship perfect for raiding, with a cargo bay that has ample space for ill gotten gains. To the ambitious trader? A stepping stone to their tycoon empire. And to the greenhorn Caldari Navy pilot? A ship worthy of starting their prestigious career with.
The Kestrel is a frigate that dates all the way back to the Caldari secession from the Gallente Federation. Initially designed to be an armored troop transport and supply runner for the Caldari armed forces, the Kestrel would fulfill a more heroic role in the coming Caldari-Gallente conflict as evacuation transport for Caldari citizens threatened by relentless orbital bombardments by the Gallente. Massive flocks of Kestrels would carry millions of survivors all the way to a new homeworld, to a New Caldari Prime.
The kestrel would immediately became an iconic vessel in Caldari culture, it would continue to find use in the newly formed Caldari State, being adopted by the Caldari Navy and given an overhaul to become a weapons platform for rockets and missile systems. The results of this would be a cost-effective, flexible, dependable combat frigate that could punch just as hard as frigates three times more expensive than itself.
Regardless of its fitted for close-range brawling or long-range kiting, the Kestrel is dangerous. Regardless if it’s fit with additional armor plating or shield extenders, the Kestrel will hold together. This variety can keep a pilot’s opponent guessing as to what exactly they got under the hull. They’ll never truely know until the last second when they’re locked in combat with it.
The Kestrel is a frigate that has seen countless engagements in New Eden. It’s a ship that has left its mark all over New Eden. It can even be argued as the personification of what it means to be Caldari. Steadfast, Reliable, Efficient and Functional.
If you’re looking for a frigate to fly into battle with - accept no substitute.