The Kage (shadow) light BattleArmor suit is a Kurita design that features stealth capabilities and impressive jump capabilities. Developed with advice from veterans of the Draconis Elite Strike Teams (DEST), the Kage is intended to replace the venerable DEST infiltration suit on scouting missions deep in hostile territory, particularly when numerous and well-armed opposition is expected.
         DEST members have long relied on the infamous DEST infiltration suit, a remarkable combination of personal armor and stealth systems exclusively issued to the Combine's most elite agents. Initiated at the direction of the Draconis high command, the Kage BattleArmor design is the result of creating a weapon that incorporates the capabilities of the DEST infiltration suit with the power and versatility provided by BattleArmor technology.

         The initial work on the Kage proved discouraging. Working from a Raiden prototype, the Kurita engineers first experimented with jump jet configurations to meet the jump specifications for the new design. (Draconis commanders had specified that the new BattleArmor possess a jump capability exceeding those of most BattleMechs). The resulting prototype's volatile flight characteristics resulted in more than one test pilot's death, as the suits had a tendency to spin out of control and strike the ground at high speeds.
         Eventually, the designers overcame this obstacle with a partial-wing configuartion and stabilizing fins. Combined with refined jump jet controls, these control surfaces provide the Kage with a jump capacity exceeded by very few BattleArmor. When the unit is not jumping, the fins retract to reduce the BattleArmor's visibility and radar signature.
         But the suit's impressive mobility is supplemented by stealth systems based on those used in the DEST infiltration suit. Although complete implementation of all the suit's systems took nearly four years, the Kage possesses ample speed and stealth for its intended mission.
         Like most other reconnaissance designs, the Kage carries little in the way of offensive capabilities. The standard Kage arsenal consists of a single antipersonnel weapon, mounted on the forearm for hands-free operation. Typically, one trooper in every Kage squad is designated as a support element and equipped with a heavy weapon in place of the standard antipersonnel weapon. If a Kage squad is attached to a force equipped with Arrow IV launchers, the Kage support element often carries a compact TAG spotting laser in place of a heavy weapon.

         Only deployed inside the borders of the old Draconis Combine, the Kage is most often seen acting as a scout for BattleMech or vehicle forces, or acting as a spotter for homing rounds. Specials forces of the Dragon use them as well, and the matte black finish of those units strikes fear in the hearts of those not loyal to the Dragon.