Cobra MkIII
A classic multi-role ship continuing the heritage of the original Elite.
The Cobra MkIII is a flyable ship in Elite Dangerous. It is based on the classic, polygonal shapes of the original Elite (1984) and continues that rich heritage. The ship is highly configurable with builds to suit roles and careers. It is one of over 45 flyable ships in the game. The Cobra MkIII is a multi-role vessel, allowing pilots to engage in activities such as trading, mining, exploration, bounty hunting, and piracy.
- class
- Multi-role Fighter
Lore & Background
The Cobra MkIII is a ship that continues the rich heritage of the original Elite (1984), being based on the classic, polygonal shapes of that game. It is one of over 45 flyable ships in Elite Dangerous, each with highly configurable builds. The ship is powered by a Frame Shift Drive, enabling supercruise up to 2000+ times the speed of light within a star system. For interstellar travel, it uses a higher dimensional region called hyperspace. The flight model incorporates Newtonian physics with a fly-by-wire layer applied on top, with flight assist enabled by default. This makes combat feel visceral and seat-of-the-pants, a departure from the jousting at huge distances seen in Frontier: Elite II.
In Their Own Story
You power up the Cobra MkIII, the familiar hum of the Frame Shift Drive resonating through the cockpit. The ship's classic, polygonal lines are a direct link to the original Elite of 3300 years ago. As you engage the supercruise, the stars stretch into lines, and you feel the Newtonian physics beneath the fly-by-wire system. This is not the jousting of old; this is a visceral, seat-of-the-pants experience. Whether you are hauling cargo, scanning a system for exobiology, or lining up a shot on a pirate, the Cobra MkIII is the vessel that carries the legacy of the original Elite into the modern galaxy.
Reader's Guide
The Cobra MkIII is a highly configurable multi-role ship. Pilots can customize it by changing modules such as engines, weapons, power plants, and scanners to suit roles like trading, mining, exploration, or combat. Its Frame Shift Drive allows for supercruise travel within a system and hyperspace jumps between stars. The flight model uses Newtonian physics with a fly-by-wire layer, and flight assist is enabled by default. For combat, this creates a visceral feel rather than long-range jousting. The ship can be upgraded using credits earned from activities like bounty hunting, trading, or exploration. Cosmetics can be purchased with ARX, a secondary currency buyable with real money.
Did You Know?
- The Cobra MkIII is based on the classic, polygonal shapes of the original Elite (1984).
- It is one of over 45 flyable ships in Elite Dangerous.
- The ship uses a Frame Shift Drive for supercruise up to 2000+ times the speed of light.
- Its flight model features Newtonian physics with a fly-by-wire layer, with flight assist enabled by default.
- The Cobra MkIII continues the rich heritage of the original Elite series.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is the Cobra MkIII ship?
This vessel serves as a multi-role fighter that acts as the definitive first step for pilots graduating from training ships into deep space. It bridges the gap between fragile trainers and expensive specialized craft.
Which company manufactures the Cobra MkIII?
Sidewinder Industries produces this ship, prioritizing rugged reliability over high speed to ensure survival in dangerous sectors. Their design philosophy focuses on ease of maintenance for independent operators.
Can I fuel scoop with a Cobra MkIII?
Yes, the MkIII includes a standard fuel scoop that allows you to collect hydrogen from stars during flight. This feature is essential for reducing station visits and saving credits early in your career.
Is this ship considered beginner-friendly?
It is widely regarded as the perfect entry-level vessel because it is affordable yet durable enough to handle combat or exploration risks. New Commanders often choose it to transition safely from basic trainers like the Sidewinder.
Why do fans call it a workhorse?
The nickname comes from its exceptional hull strength and moderate shield recharge, which allow it to withstand more damage than similar-sized ships. Pilots trust it for long-term missions where reliability matters more than raw performance.
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