BAE Systems has reached a key production benchmark with the delivery of its 100,000th Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) laser-guidance kit.
In continuous full-rate production for more than a decade, the APKWS is manufactured at company facilities in Hudson, New Hampshire, and Austin, Texas. The kit upgrades standard 2.75-inch (70mm) unguided rockets into precision-guided weapons, enabling accurate strikes across air-to-ground, ground-to-ground, air defense, and limited air-to-air roles while reducing unintended damage.
The system is operated by all major US service branches — the Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps — as well as international users including Saudi Arabia and the UK.
Expanding Operational Roles
APKWS offers a versatile and economical means of engaging diverse targets, from lightly armored vehicles and enemy personnel to drones.
It can be deployed from fixed-wing jets, rotary-wing aircraft, select uncrewed systems, ground vehicles, and maritime platforms. The kit integrates seamlessly with existing rocket components, requiring minimal additional training and logistical support.
Ongoing development efforts are broadening its operational envelope. In July 2025, a TRV-150 multi-rotor drone carried out successful air and ground engagements using APKWS rockets, representing a milestone in air-to-air employment. Meanwhile, the US Air Force quickly adapted its F-15E Strike Eagle fleet to carry APKWS II for counter-drone missions.
The weapon is also under consideration for integration on the Eurofighter Typhoon and Saab Gripen as part of emerging counter-UAS strategies.
