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.
More from Air Warfare
-
![British Army drone operators gain expertise]()
British Army drone operators gain expertise
The British Army has contracted Inzpire to supply UAS training services to its operators in support of a mini drone contract led by Lockheed Martin UK.
-
![Elbit to support anti-missile systems for NATO A330 tanker fleet]()
Elbit to support anti-missile systems for NATO A330 tanker fleet
The NATO Support and Procurement Agency centre in Luxembourg will support the direct infrared countermeasures system fitted to the Multi-Role Tanker Transport Capability fleet.
-
![DARPA X-plane with revolutionary controls hits new milestone]()
DARPA X-plane with revolutionary controls hits new milestone
The CRANE project exploring active-flow control technologies could contribute to developing extremely low-observable aircraft in the future.
-
![Sikorsky delivers 5,000th H-60 helicopter]()
Sikorsky delivers 5,000th H-60 helicopter
The Black Hawk has been in service for over four decades, but both the US Army and Sikorsky believe the helicopter will have a role for at least another 40 years.
-
![Hensoldt develops demonstrator SIGINT pod for Eurodrone]()
Hensoldt develops demonstrator SIGINT pod for Eurodrone
The company has already demonstrated its C-ESM capabilities in ground and flight tests.
-
![Last upgraded light combat aircraft delivered to Czech Air Force]()
Last upgraded light combat aircraft delivered to Czech Air Force
Work on the L-159 Advanced Light Combat Aircraft included inspection and testing of parts, plus technical improvements to some components and functions of the aircraft.
