Scaled Composites ARES Prototype

The Scaled Composites 151 ARES, also known as the Agile Responsive Effective Support, is a bold testament to modern aviation's quest for versatility and innovation. Designed in the early 1990s, ARES was a brainchild of the legendary Burt Rutan, aiming to provide the U.S. Army with a low-cost, high-performance aircraft capable of Close Air Support (CAS) missions. Despite its prototype status, the ARES showcased remarkable features, including a pusher propeller design, a unique forward-swept wing for enhanced maneuverability, and a multi-role capability that could adapt from reconnaissance to light attack missions. Its distinctive appearance, marked by a sleek, compact frame, and its potential as a versatile combat platform, make the ARES a fascinating chapter in aviation history. Although it never entered mass production, the ARES remains a symbol of innovative design and the endless pursuit of aviation excellence.