ARES Defense Systems, Inc., the country’s leading manufacturer of innovative, mission-configurable firearms and accessories, has released the groundbreaking ARES-16 Advanced Weapons System for military and law enforcement use.  The select-fire ARES-16 features a dual-feed system, allowing operators to selectively alternate between magazine and belt feed without reconfiguration of any weapon components.  Created for law enforcement and military use; the ultra-lightweight ( 8lb.) ARES-16 offers unrivaled functionality to meet the needs of any mission.  Durable, lightweight and user-friendly, the military-grade ARES-16 provides tactical professionals with the firepower of a U.S. M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) at less than half the weight of the SAW.  The dual-feed design of the ARES-16 accepts standard 30-round M16 magazines and M27-linked SAW ammunition in 5.56x45mm NATO (.223 REM), and fires at a rate of 625 to 800 rounds-per-minute.  Furthering its usability, the ARES-16 features a true quick-change barrel that allows the user to swap barrels in less than three seconds for both heat mitigation and mission flexibility, and the short stroke gas-piston system is cleaner and more reliable than the M16’s legacy direct-gas system.  The ARES-16 design allows users to perform most operations without having to remove their hand from the pistol grip and features a co-planar rail hand guard and Mil-Std 1913 Picatinny rails on the top cover for mounting optics and accessories.  The ARES-16 delivers strength, reliability and longer weapon life with its quality, American-made materials and precision construction.  The high strength alloys used to construct the ARES-16 feature an anodized, non-reflective hard-coat black finish that resists wear and corrosion and enhances durability, providing years of lightweight, reliable service.  ARES-16, One Weapon, Any Mission! For more information about the ARES-16 go to www.aresdefense.com.