Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System qualifies for use on Bell Helicopter 407GT platform
NewsMarch 08, 2013
YUMA, AZ. A test of BAE System’s Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) in Yuma, AZ proved the weapon’s safety and sustainability on a Bell Helicopter 407GT, leading to Bell’s qualification of the rocket for use on the platform. Seven APKWS 70 mm rockets were fired from the 407GT as part of the testing.
The APKWS is a laser-guided 2.75” Hydra-type rocket designed to engage lightly armored targets. The APKWS technology is intended to fulfill the niche between unguided rockets and Hellfire missiles.
“Our highly precise APKWS rockets struck targets ranging from 1.5 kilometers to 5 kilometers away, at both direct and off-axis angles, and hit the target — a lightly armored vehicle — each time,” said David Harrold, director for Precision Guidance Solutions at BAE Systems. “The 407GT platform is significant because it is Bell Helicopter's first commercially qualified, armed helicopter, configurable to perform a wide range of missions.”
The APKWS is also qualified on UH-1Y and AH-1W helicopters. BAE Systems is the prime contractor on the Navy APKWS contract.
