The US Air Force has selected BAE Systems for a contract worth up to $145 million to deliver an infrared-guided air-to-air counter-drone system derived from the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS).
The dual-mode upgrade expands on the laser-guided APKWS developed under the FALCO program, created to meet urgent counter-UAS requirements identified by United States Central Command. The demand reflects growing concerns over Group 3 unmanned aerial systems threatening US personnel and assets in the Middle East, as reported by Naval News.
Initial plans call for integration onto F-16 fighter jets operated by the US Air Force and MH-60 helicopters in service with the US Navy. While integration could begin as early as this fall, a contract announcement from the United States Department of Defense states that the first delivery order is projected for completion by July 2027, with the overall contract running through February 2031.
From Rocket to Smart Munition
The APKWS is designed as a low-cost precision guidance kit that converts standard 70mm rockets into laser-guided weapons, enabling accurate strikes against soft or lightly armored ground targets and aerial threats.
In the air-to-air configuration, a proximity fuze allows the missile to defeat maneuvering drones without a direct hit. Under FALCO, software improvements expanded the system’s effectiveness in aerial engagements, and FALCO-configured rockets have already been used by US Air Force aircraft against Houthi targets in the Red Sea theatre.
Next-Generation Infrared Capability
The newest iteration incorporates a long-wave infrared seeker, removing the need for continuous laser illumination and enabling faster target acquisition and engagement. The configuration also includes a mid-body warhead fitted with a dual-safe proximity fuze.
With a laser-to-infrared switching function, the system reduces lasing duration and improves responsiveness against maneuvering or mass drone threats. Its compact size allows fighters to carry a dozen or more missiles per sortie, significantly increasing counter-UAS capacity.
The updated design also focuses on cost reduction and scalable production. The contract covers 300 prototype missiles, including 100 for integration and testing and 200 designated for evaluation and contingency deployment in the Middle East.
