Scaled Composites ARES

Scaled Composites · United States · first flew 1990 · fighter

The Scaled Composites ARES (Agile Responsive Effective Support) was an experimental close air support demonstrator designed by Burt Rutan, notable for its deliberate asymmetric design to accommodate a large-calibre cannon.

Recognition (WEFT)

WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.

Spot it by:

• Asymmetric offset-cockpit close air support demonstrator
• Single engine with S-duct intake offset to starboard to avoid gun gas
• GAU-12 cannon mount offset to port side of nose

The immediately striking asymmetric cockpit offset — unique in aviation — is the primary recognition feature. The S-duct intake on the right fuselage side and cannon housing on the left add to the unusual silhouette.

Specifications

• The Scaled Composites ARES has a length of 8.97 m (29 ft).
• It has a wingspan of 10.67 m (35 ft).
• Its maximum speed is 750 km/h (466 mph).
• Typical crew: 1.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

First flown in 1990, the ARES was designed to demonstrate a concept for a simple, low-cost close air support jet that could be built and operated cheaply. The cockpit was offset to the left to make room for a 25 mm GAU-12 cannon on the centreline. The programme attracted interest but did not lead to production.

Variants

A single demonstrator aircraft was built; no production or derivative versions followed.

Where you'll see it

Never entered military service; remained a private demonstrator.

Related aircraft

• Scaled Composites Model 81 Catbird
• Rutan Boomerang
• Scaled Composites Rutan Voyager
• Scaled Composites Proteus
• Grumman F-14D Super Tomcat
• Hongdu JL-8
• Lockheed/Boeing/General Dynamics YF-22
• NAMC JL-8 (K-8 Karakorum)

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