Ares Landing Craft

Description
Developed by the Terran Hegemony as a means of reducing losses among their orbit-to-surface transports, the Ares Landing Craft proved to be versatile and rugged, serving the Hegemony Armed Forces and Star League for more than three centuries. Prior to the introduction of the Ares, the HAF was utilizing converted merchant cargo craft modified with additional armor or weapons. The only way these stopgap solutions could get through a concentrated fighter screen was through sheer numbers. Mission losses well in excess of 25% were common. In addition, the modifications to these craft left them with very little cargo space. The Ares provided solutions for both of these problems, mounting powerful defensive armament and thick armor, while still being able to carry a sixty-five ton tank onto the battlefield.

Armament
The Ares carries four Medium Lasers and a pair of LRM-15s, giving it serious punch for its day.

Cargo
The Ares has a single cargo bay with up to 65 tons capacity.

Variants
The Ares saw several variants over its lifespan. The Mk.II "Close Attack Landing Craft" added an additional three Large Lasers to the craft and was used as an powerful escort and ground-attack craft. The Mk.III "Assault Craft" was designed to attack enemy fighters, adding a single Large Laser, along with more heat sinks, heavier armor, and a more powerful engine. During the Succession Wars, the class later evolved into the Mark VII.

Design Quirks
The Ares Landing Craft features the following Design Quirks:
 * Atmospheric Flyer
 * Easy to Maintain
 * Obsolete/2476