BAE Systems has delivered its 100,000th Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS), achieving a major production milestone for the laser-guidance kit.
The APKWS has remained in full-rate production for over 12 years, with manufacturing operations based in Hudson, New Hampshire, and Austin, Texas. The system transforms unguided 2.75-inch (70mm) rockets into precision-guided munitions capable of conducting accurate air-to-surface, surface-to-surface, surface-to-air, and even air-to-air engagements while minimizing collateral damage.
The laser-guidance kit is currently fielded by the US Army, US Air Force, US Navy, and US Marine Corps, along with international operators such as Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom.
Flexible and Cost-Effective Capability
Designed as an adaptable and affordable solution, APKWS can counter a wide range of threats, including light armored vehicles, personnel, and unmanned aerial systems.
The system is compatible with fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, certain uncrewed aerial vehicles, ground platforms, and naval vessels. It can also be integrated with existing rocket motors, warheads, and fuzes with limited additional training or maintenance requirements.
BAE Systems continues to refine and expand APKWS capabilities for specialized mission sets. In July 2025, a multi-rotor TRV-150 drone successfully engaged air and ground targets using APKWS-equipped rockets, marking a first-of-its-kind air-to-air intercept. That same year, the US Air Force rapidly upgraded its F-15E Strike Eagle to deploy APKWS II rockets against drone threats.
The system is also being evaluated as a counter-drone weapon for platforms such as the Eurofighter Typhoon and the Gripen fighter aircraft.
