The only prototype of the American ARES attack aircraft was lifted into the air
The only prototype of the American ARES (Agile Responsive Effective Support) close air support aircraft, which was built 34 years ago, took off. A unique attack aircraft is used for testing, writes Army Recognition.
Eyewitnesses spotted ARES during a flight near the Mojave Air and Space Port in California. “This close air support aircraft concept demonstrator continues to serve as a proving ground for the U.S. Army. It is noteworthy that 34 years have passed since its first flight on February 19, 1990,” the publication writes.
ARES was developed in response to the US Army’s request for a low-cost attack aircraft to support ground forces. The military wanted an unpretentious aircraft with high maneuverability at low altitudes and resistance to stalling. Therefore, the specialists at Scaled Composites built the ARES according to the canard design and equipped it with a front horizontal tail. The main weapon of the aircraft was the six-barreled GAU-12 cannon of 25 mm caliber. The attack aircraft could also carry missiles.
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The aircraft successfully passed tests, but the military was not interested in the aircraft. After the acquisition of Scaled Composites by Northrop Grumman, the aircraft began to be used as a flying laboratory for testing new technical solutions.
Earlier in October, the Kalashnikov concern announced an increase in production of GSh-301 single-barrel aircraft guns for a special military operation. This weapon is equipped on MiG-29, Su-27 aircraft and vehicles based on them.
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