U.S. Navy opts in for additional BAE Systems' APKWS laser-guided rockets
NewsJune 12, 2017
HUDSON, N.H. U.S. Navy officials awarded BAE Systems a $180.5 million contract to continue producing Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) laser-guided rockets to meet the growing U.S. and international demand for the systems.
The order is under the indefinite delivery / indefinite quantity (ID/IQ) $600 million contract awarded in October 2016. The demand for APKWS rockets is increasing due to cost-effective precision strikes with reduced potential for collateral damage, officials say.
APKWS laser-guided rockets allow militaries to leverage existing munitions and weapons systems investments with minimal effort and training. The APKWS mid-body guidance kit transforms standard unguided Hydra 70 (2.75-inch) rockets into accurate precision munitions by screwing into place between the warhead and the motor.
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