Elite Dangerous – Viper Mk. III

Viper Mk. III "Raider"

The Viper Mk III is a great medium fighter. Even though it is cheap, it is a very capable fighter. It is the fastest ship in the game which adds to its survivability and efficiency for intercepting pirates.

Despite its high speed, it is not as agile as an Eagle Mk II.

The Viper Mk III has better weapons and shields compared to the Sidewinder and Eagle.

The jump range, small fuel tank and cargo space limits the use of the Viper Mk III for short range combat missions.

I like the layout of the cockpit - it feels like sitting in a small fighter - and also like the engine sounds. And it is SO fast and fun to fly! 🙂

Great ship for bounty hunting in RES or USS, conflict zones etc.

Should I buy a Viper Mk III or Viper Mk IV?

They can carry the same weapons. The Mk IV has better shields and can carry more than twice as much cargo, and also has better jump range (25,6 vs 21,3 ly). 

The Mk IV can equip a Class 4 shield where the Mk III can only equip a Class 3 and the Mk IV hull is also stronger. 

The Mk III is much faster (fastest ship in game) - especially boost speed - and more agile.

• The Mk IV is a better choice for doing cargo runs and is a better allround ship (but also much more expensive!).
• If you depend on strong shields and hull in combat, choose a Mk IV 
• If you depend on high speed and agility in combat, choose a Mk III

If you choose a Mk IV you should consider using Gimbal weapons due to the lower maneuverability, otherwise it can be hard to hit fast moving targets.