BAE Systems successfully ground-launches APKWS rockets
BAE Systems has successfully completed the first test shots of its APKWS laser-guided rockets from a ground-based weapon system, the company said on 1 June.
Testing was carried out at the US Army’s Yuma Proving Ground with support from the USN and Arnold Defense.
Greg Procopio, director of Precision Guidance and Sensing Solutions at BAE Systems, said: ‘Demand is growing for ground-to-ground precision munitions that provide a safe standoff distance for small ground units. We’re working closely with our customer and partners to deliver that capability’, Procopio stated.
The purpose-built Fletcher 70mm laser-guided rocket launcher from Arnold Defense was used during the test firing. The APKWS is the only US government programme of record for precision-guided 70mm rockets.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
![Refresh of Romanian army vehicles speeds up]()
Refresh of Romanian army vehicles speeds up
Romania received its first Cobra MkII 4×4 light tactical armoured vehicles, ordered Abrams main battle tanks (MBTs) and VAMTAC light vehicles, and is set to invest billions-of-dollars in infantry fighting vehicles.
-
![Italy begins hunt for Puma replacement]()
Italy begins hunt for Puma replacement
The Italian Army operates Pumas in 6×6 and 4×4 configurations but the platforms are ageing and numbers have fallen with obsolescence also being an issue. Any replacement is likely to have a focus on the involvement of local industry.
-
![Orders roll in for VAMTAC tactical vehicles as first is delivered to New Zealand]()
Orders roll in for VAMTAC tactical vehicles as first is delivered to New Zealand
The VAMTAC (Vehículo de Alta Movilidad Táctico or High Mobility Tactical Vehicle) 4×4 by Urovesa is in service with or has been ordered by eight countries, the most recent being Spain this month and Romania last month.
-
![CV90 user group signs agreement to improve procurement and commonality]()
CV90 user group signs agreement to improve procurement and commonality
The CV90 is in service with or ordered by ten countries. The agreement between six of these countries is designed to create commonality to provide economies of scale and a reduced training burden.
