BAE Systems releases advanced APKWS system
BAE Systems' APKWS laser-guided rocket redefines precision by hitting targets with pinpoint accuracy and minimal collateral damage. (Image: BAE Systems)
BAE Systems has announced its new advance APWS guidance kit for precision-guided rockets.
BAE Systems has developed a new and improved version of its APKWS guidance kit that offers enhanced strike distance and precision strike lethality.
The upgrade improves the effective range of APKWS guided rockets by up to 30%, allowing users to engage targets from a greater standoff distance with improved survivability.
The APKWS is the US government’s only programme of record for guiding 2.75in laser-guided rockets, providing an efficient, low-cost weapon.
Initial production of APKWS block upgrade guidance kits will start in Q3 2021.
APKWS block upgrade guidance kits create an optimised flight trajectory that enables the rocket to engage targets at a steeper angle of attack, providing improvements in range and lethality.
This improves first-shot success against both stationary and moving targets and reduces collateral damage.
The enhanced kits also provide logistics and training benefits to customers.
A single variant of the weapon is now qualified for rotary- and fixed-wing aircraft across the US armed forces customers.
BAE initially developed the system for rotary- and fixed-wing aircraft use and later in 2018 developed the system for ground and naval operators as well.
According to Shephard Defence Insight, since 2007, APKWS II rockets have achieved a 93% success rate.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![UK Royal Navy’s upgraded Commando Merlin helicopters achieve full operating capability]()
UK Royal Navy’s upgraded Commando Merlin helicopters achieve full operating capability
A total of 19 Mk3 and six Mk3a Commando Merlin helicopters have now been upgraded to the Mk4/4a standard, with the work overseen by the procurement arm of the Ministry of Defence (MoD), Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), Leonardo and the Royal Navy (RN).
-
![Switzerland’s Hermes 900 procurement faces further delays and headwinds]()
Switzerland’s Hermes 900 procurement faces further delays and headwinds
The Swiss Federal Audit Office has said the drones won’t meet planned military requirements until 2029, after extensive delays pushed timeline back to the end of 2026.
-
![Italy “in favour” of Saudi Arabia joining GCAP, says PM]()
Italy “in favour” of Saudi Arabia joining GCAP, says PM
Prime Minister Moloni's comment came as Italy and Saudi Arabia signed a swathe of agreements totalling $US10 billion for greater cooperation, including between its defence and aerospace industries.
-
![The Philippines eyes procurement of additional FA-50 jets and upgrades]()
The Philippines eyes procurement of additional FA-50 jets and upgrades
The Philippine Air Force is reportedly finalising terms for the upgrade of 12 and additional procurement of several FA-50 aircraft with KAI, with Embraer’s A-29 Super Tucanos procurement also completed.
