430
ARES has flown over 430 hours.
Model No.
151
First Flight
February 16, 1990
ARES is a full-scale proof-of-concept demonstrator that was developed as a concept in support of a U.S. Army request for a Low Cost Battlefield Attack Aircraft (LCBAA). The LCBAA design goals were low-altitude, anti-tank, battlefield support with long endurance, and capable of operating outside of improved airfields environment. ARES has flown more than 430 hours, and demonstrated all of its design performance and handling qualities goals, including departure-free handling at full aft stick. During November of 1991, tests of the GAU-12/U gun system installed in ARES were performed, with outstanding results. Movie buffs may also remember the ARES in its role as the secret ME-263 jet in the screen classic Iron Eagle III. ARES is currently being used as a research test bed and is available for future projects.
ARES has flown over 430 hours.
Fact 01/02
ARES made its movie debut in Iron Eagle III with a special paint job as the villain's "Messerschmitt Me 263."
Fact 02/02