Project Ares
The concept aircraft 'Ares' was originally sketched by the client in the 1950s as a mach 3 capable, strategic reconnaissance aircraft. The project requirements were to produce a 3D model (intended for 3D printing) and 4K, photo realistic images suitable for printing.
Performance
- Maximum Speed: Mach 3.0
- Cruise Speed: Mach 2.5
- Service Ceiling: 75,000ft
- Combat Radius: 1,200NM
Propulsion
- Engines: 2x Bristol Siddeley Olympus Mk.320
- Dry Thrust: 87kN (per engine)
- Wet Thrust: 136kN (per engine)
Dimensions & Weights
- Length: 32.9m (108ft)
- Wingspan: 17.4m (57ft)
- Height: 4.6m (15ft)
- Empty Weight: 20,000kg (44,092lbs)
- MTOW: 40,000kg (88,185lbs)
Key design features of this unmanned aircraft include a cranked delta-wing & canard arrangement. Twin vertical stabilisers with all-moving rudders. All-moving wingtips that act as elevons and leading edge notches. Shock bodies are used to blend the forward and rear fuselage as well as the vertical stabilisers to the wings. Tricycle landing gear with four wheel bogey main gears and twin wheel nose gear. The belly intake uses a central shock body and variable geometry ramps to allow continuous engine operation at supersonic speeds.
3D CAD Model
Engineering Drawing
Scale 3D Print
A scale model was printed in four sections, using matt black PLA and completed in just 6 hours. Below you can see a side-by-side comparison photo with a 1:72 model SR-71 Blackbird, a theoretical competitior to the Ares.
Image Rendering
Project Ares in flight with RAF camouflage paint scheme.
Project Ares in formation with a 'Super Hunter', both in a polished aluminium finish with afterburners.
Project Ares in formation with a 'Super Hunter', during sunrise.
All information and imagery have been shared with the knowledge and consent of the original owner.