BAE Systems’ APKWS® Laser-Guidance Kits Bring The HEAT Against Armored Vehicles

Rhea-AI Summary

BAE Systems has successfully tested its APKWS® laser-guidance kits that utilize High-Explosive Anti-Tank Anti-Personnel Anti-Materiel (HEAT/APAM) warheads. All test rockets achieved direct hits on armored targets, showcasing their precision and versatility for engaging various threats. These guidance kits can convert unguided rockets into smart munitions, offering enhanced strike capabilities against both armored and unarmored targets. They are compatible with existing Hydra rocket components and require minimal training to use.

Positive

• Successful testing of APKWS guidance kits with HEAT/APAM warheads, achieving three direct hits on armored targets.
• Enhanced versatility of rockets for precision strikes against a range of threats.
• APKWS kits are compatible with existing Hydra rocket systems, facilitating easy integration.

Negative

• None.

HUDSON, N.H.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- BAE Systems successfully tested its APKWS® laser-guidance kits with High-Explosive Anti-Tank Anti-Personnel Anti-Materiel (HEAT/APAM) warheads from General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems. Guided by APKWS guidance kits, the rockets went three for three against armored targets, demonstrating their versatility to engage a broad set of targets and enable new missions for warfighters.

BAE Systems successfully tested its APKWS® laser-guidance kits with High-Explosive Anti-Tank Anti-Personnel Anti-Materiel (HEAT/APAM) warheads. (Credit: BAE Systems)

APKWS guidance kits transform unguided rockets into smart munitions for precision strikes on soft targets, equipment, and armored targets.

During the test event, BAE Systems launched rockets with HEAT/APAM warheads and APKWS guidance kits against well-armored targets – including a steel plate and an armored military vehicle. All test shots were direct hits, defeating fortified targets at range. The HEAT/APAM warheads are capable of penetrating thick armor, which improves the versatility of rockets guided by APKWS guidance kits.

“We’re giving our customers more in-mission options for precision strikes against tougher targets,” said Sam Kirsh, APKWS program manager at BAE Systems. “APKWS guidance kits with HEAT/APAM warheads provide a low-cost, lightweight, easy-to-deploy strike capability against armored and unarmored targets.”

The APKWS guidance kits are also compatible with 2.75” (70 millimeter) Hydra rocket components – including new and existing inventories of motors, warheads, fuses, launchers, and laser target designators. They require minimal training to assemble and fire, and can be fired from a variety of launch platforms, including fighter jets, combat helicopters, ground vehicles, and remote weapon stations.

APKWS guidance kits have proven their accuracy in combat with hundreds of successful shots fired with the M151 high-explosive warhead. The guidance kit is available to allied nations via Foreign Military Sales.

For additional information about APKWS guidance kits, visit: www.baesystems.com/apkws.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221110005040/en/

For more information, please contact:

Mark Daly, BAE Systems

Mobile: 603-233-7636

mark.g.daly@baesystems.com

www.baesystems.com/US

@BAESystemsInc

Source: BAE Systems

FAQ

What are the recent developments for BAE Systems (BAESY)?

BAE Systems recently tested its APKWS® laser-guidance kits successfully with three direct hits on armored targets.

How do APKWS guidance kits benefit BAE Systems?

These kits enhance the versatility and precision of unguided rockets, allowing for effective strikes against various targets.

When was the test of the APKWS guidance kits conducted?

The successful tests were reported in a recent press release from BAE Systems.

What capabilities do HEAT/APAM warheads provide?

HEAT/APAM warheads can penetrate thick armor, making them effective against fortified targets.