BAE Systems tests rocket laser guidance kits for anti-drone role
The APKWS technology converts unguided rockets into smart munitions for precise strikes on soft and lightly armoured targets. (Photo: BAE Systems)
BAE Systems' APKWS laser guidance kits have successfully undergone testing in a counter-UAS mission led by the US Joint Counter-Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Office.
BAE Systems’ APKWS laser guidance kits have undergone successful testing in a counter-UAS (C-UAS) mission led by the US DoD's Joint Counter-Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Office (JCO).
The testing against Class 2 UAS enables the fielding of precision-guided rockets to partner nations around the world, BAE Systems said.
The APKWS technology converts unguided rockets into smart munitions for precise strikes on soft and lightly armoured targets.
Related Articles
Kawasaki develops C-UAS laser system for Japanese military
A newly developed proximity fuse for the standard M151 warhead allows the laser guidance kits to target Class 2 and Class 3 drones that weigh less than 25kg, retaining the legacy point denotation capability for maximum flexibility of the weapon in the field.
According to BAE Systems, APKWS provides a cost-effective solution that enables rockets to engage and destroy drones with unprecedented precision at a fraction of the cost of existing C-UAS systems.
In a US DoD-led exercise at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, the 70mm APKWS-guided rockets displayed 100% effectiveness when fired against drones weighing between 11 and 22,5kg and travelling at more than 160km/h.
The APKWS C-UAS solution is platform agnostic, permitting multiple options to accelerate fielding.
Aimee D’Onofrio, director of precision guidance and sensing solutions at BAE Systems, said: ‘Our engineers’ passion for APKWS technology led to the development of this new product designed to meet drones head-on.
‘This is a solution that comes at a remarkably affordable price point, and with APKWS already at full-rate production, we can ramp up to 25,000 units per year to make an immediate impact.’
The APKWS guidance kits are manufactured at BAE Systems’ facility in Hudson, New Hampshire. The kits are available to US allies through Foreign Military Sales.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
![Croatia orders Leopards and CAESAR howitzers as Lithuania orders more CAESARs]()
Croatia orders Leopards and CAESAR howitzers as Lithuania orders more CAESARs
The Leopard is becoming the tank of choice in central and eastern Europe as Croatia joins Lithuania, the Czech Republic and Hungary in ordering the platform. Lithuania and Croatia have also signed for CAESAR howitzers.
-
![Light Reconnaissance Strike – enabling a vital mission set (Studio)]()
Light Reconnaissance Strike – enabling a vital mission set (Studio)
A new system-of-systems concept will unlock digital integration of sensors and weapons for Light Forces, allowing them to shape the battlefield environment on their own terms and upgrade legacy platforms.
-
![Lockheed Martin to look further afield for GMARS rocket system opportunities]()
Lockheed Martin to look further afield for GMARS rocket system opportunities
The HX truck is already in use in many NATO and allied countries around the world as a logistics vehicle and carrier for high-value systems, including missile firing weapons, so its use for the Global Mobile Artillery Rocket System makes logistical sense.
-
![Lithuanian 1st Division to achieve initial operating capability in 2026]()
Lithuanian 1st Division to achieve initial operating capability in 2026
Lithuania is one of the countries stepping up its defences in the face of the war in Ukraine with a particular focus on its neighbour and Russian ally Belarus, which has been making incursions into Lithuania’s airspace with balloons and drones.
-
![Beyond Survivability: How Active Protection Systems Are Empowering Commanders (Podcast)]()
Beyond Survivability: How Active Protection Systems Are Empowering Commanders (Podcast)
As threats diversify and intensify, APS are proving essential not just for vehicle protection but also for enhancing operational freedom, effectiveness and mission success in contested environments.
-
![Medium knocked out of British Army LMP, with CAVS as heavyweight champion]()
Medium knocked out of British Army LMP, with CAVS as heavyweight champion
As the British Army seeks to modernise and consolidate its diverse vehicle fleet, yet another change in direction is underway.
