Analysis: Discovering ARES Next-Generation APC Armored Personnel Carrier for British Army Reconnaissance Units.

The British Army's reconnaissance units are set to receive new advanced reconnaissance tracked armored vehicles with the introduction of the ARES, developed by General Dynamics UK. This new Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) is the latest addition to the Ajax family of tracked armored vehicles, designed to replace the aging Spartan CVRT. The Ares offers advanced capabilities and state-of-the-art technology tailored for modern battlefield requirements. This article explains what the Ares APC is, explores its features, and highlights its importance within the Ajax family and the broader context of military operations, providing a thorough understanding of its role and benefits for the British Army.
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At the front of the image is the ARES, new Armored Personnel Carrier APC for British Army reconnaissance units.  (Picture source: British MoD)

ARES is an Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) designed to transport infantry troops safely across various terrains. Ares emphasizes advanced mobility, protection, and situational awareness as part of the Ajax family, which includes multiple variants tailored for different roles such as reconnaissance, command and control, and repair and recovery. The Ares APC will provide safe transportation of fully-equipped soldiers in a well-protected environment. Upon dismount, troops can conduct various tasks, such as dismounted surveillance (including patrols), observation posts, and close target reconnaissance.

ARES boasts superior armor compared to its predecessor, the Spartan CVRT. It is equipped with advanced ballistic and mine protection, ensuring the safety of its occupants against a wide range of threats, including improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and small arms fire. Ares is designed to operate in diverse and challenging environments and has a powerful engine and advanced suspension system. This enables it to navigate rough terrains, providing strategic mobility for troop deployments and extractions.

One of the most notable aspects of ARES is its state-of-the-art surveillance and reconnaissance systems. These include acoustic detectors, a laser warning system, a local situational awareness system, an electronic countermeasure system, a route marking system, an advanced electronic architecture, and a high-performance power pack. The vehicle is also equipped with a Kongsberg Protector Remote Weapon Station armed with a 12.7mm machine gun. The turret features a Detached Line of Sight (DLOS) that allows the gunner to maintain focus on the target, regardless of the ballistic solution for the weapon/ammunition in use. The turret also houses a thermal imager with a dual field of view and a color daylight camera that provides a wide field of view up to 45 degrees during observation, and more than 30 times optical magnified close-up view of the target area during identification and engagement of a long-distance target. Ares also comes with a mobile camouflage system, fire detection system, electronic countermeasure system, and NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) protection system as standard equipment.

The ARES will be used to deliver and support specialist troops across the battlefield to enable organic combined arms maneuver at the lowest tactical level alongside SCOUT-equipped troops. It provides safe transportation of modern, fully equipped soldiers in a well-protected environment. On dismount, the fully briefed troops can more effectively conduct various tasks such as dismounted surveillance (including patrols), observation posts, and close target reconnaissance. Ares also incorporates a sophisticated digital architecture that supports secure communications, data sharing, and battlefield management systems. This allows for real-time information exchange and coordination with other military assets, enhancing operational effectiveness.

The introduction of ARES into the British Army's fleet marks a significant advancement in capability and technology. As a replacement for the aging Spartan CVRT, Ares enhances operational efficiency with its advanced mobility and protection, facilitating faster and safer troop transportation. The sophisticated surveillance systems on ARES provide real-time intelligence to troops, enabling more informed decision-making and quicker responses to threats. The enhanced armor and mine protection features of Ares substantially increase the survivability of the troops it transports, thereby reducing casualties and ensuring mission success. As a member of the Ajax family, Ares can be deployed in tandem with other variants, offering a versatile and adaptable solution for a wide range of military scenarios.

The ARES is an upgrade and a transformative addition to the British Army's armored vehicle fleet. It combines cutting-edge technology, advanced protection, and superior mobility to meet the demands of modern warfare. As a crucial part of the Ajax family, Ares significantly enhances the British Army's overall operational capability, ensuring its readiness and effectiveness in the face of evolving battlefield challenges.