BAE Systems’ APKWS® laser-guidance kits successfully tested by U.S. counter-drone office

Rhea-AI Summary

BAE Systems has tested its APKWS® laser-guidance kits in a successful counter-UAS mission, demonstrating effectiveness against Class-2 unmanned aerial systems (UAS). This testing opens avenues for global fielding of precision-guided rockets to allied nations. The APKWS technology enhances unguided rockets for precision strikes, effectively engaging drones at a lower cost compared to existing C-UAS systems. During a Department of Defense-led exercise, APKWS-guided rockets achieved a 100% success rate against drones weighing 25 to 50 pounds. The production capacity allows for ramping up to 25,000 units annually, supporting U.S. armed forces and allies via Foreign Military Sales.

Positive

• Successful testing of APKWS kits against Class-2 UAS, demonstrating 100% effectiveness.
• Ability to target drones at a lower cost compared to existing counter-UAS solutions.
• Production capacity of 25,000 units per year is established, allowing rapid deployment.

Negative

• None.

Effective counter-UAS test strikes pave the way for international fielding

HUDSON, N.H.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Joint Counter-Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Office (JCO) has successfully tested BAE Systems’ APKWS® laser-guidance kits in a counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) mission. The testing against Class-2 UAS paves the way for fielding of the precision-guided rockets to partner nations around the globe.

APKWS® laser-guidance kits have been successfully tested against drones. (Credit: BAE Systems)

APKWS transforms unguided rockets into smart munitions for precision strikes on soft and lightly armored targets. A newly developed proximity fuze for the standard M151 warhead allows the laser-guidance kits to target Class 2 and Class 3 drones, which typically weigh less than 55 pounds. The fuze retains the legacy point denotation capability for maximum flexibility of the weapon in the field. APKWS now enables rockets to engage and destroy drones at a fraction of the cost of existing C-UAS systems with unprecedented precision.

During the Department of Defense-led exercise at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, the 70 mm APKWS-guided rockets demonstrated 100 percent effectiveness when fired against 25 to 50 pound drones traveling at more than 100 miles an hour. The APKWS C-UAS solution is platform agnostic, permitting multiple options to accelerate fielding.

“Our engineers’ passion for APKWS technology led to the development of this new product designed to meet drones head-on,” said Aimee D’Onofrio, a director of Precision Guidance and Sensing Solutions at BAE Systems. “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.”

APKWS laser-guidance kits are produced at BAE Systems’ state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Hudson, New Hampshire. The kits are available to all U.S. armed forces, as well as allies via Foreign Military Sales.

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

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230328005337/en/

Shelley Walcott, BAE Systems

Mobile: 603-508-9107

shelley.walcott@baesystems.com

www.baesystems.com/US

@BAESystemsInc

Source: BAE Systems

FAQ

What is the significance of BAE Systems' APKWS test on stock BAESY?

The successful test of APKWS laser-guidance kits enhances BAE Systems' market position in counter-UAS systems, potentially increasing demand from U.S. and allied military forces.

When was BAE Systems' APKWS tested for counter-UAS operations?

The APKWS laser-guidance kits were tested during a Department of Defense-led exercise at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona.

What capabilities do the APKWS laser-guidance kits provide for BAE Systems?

APKWS kits transform unguided rockets into precision munitions, allowing for targeted strikes against drones, enhancing operational effectiveness.

How effective are the APKWS-guided rockets against drones?

The APKWS-guided rockets demonstrated 100% effectiveness against drones weighing 25 to 50 pounds during testing.

What is BAE Systems' production capacity for APKWS kits?

BAE Systems has the capacity to produce up to 25,000 APKWS units per year, supporting rapid deployment for U.S. armed forces and allies.