Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System

The Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) provides the warfighter with a surgical-strike capability that can be integrated directly onto the Apache, SuperCobra, Blackhawk and Kiowa Warrior helicopters and UAVs. APKWS boasts a number of benefits over existing weapons:

• Low cost. The APKWS guidance section is compatible with existing 70mm (2.75”) rocket motors, warheads, launchers, designators and fire control systems.
• High degree of precision. APKWS is compatible with autonomous and remote designator systems. The wide field-of-view and long-range laser acquisition allow precision engagements against moving and stationary targets in a variety of tactical situations or engagements.
• Low collateral damage. The low-yield warhead makes APKWS the ideal weapon for targets and missions in urban environments where surgical precision and minimal collateral damage are required.
• Increased standoff. Aviators can engage targets from further away with a high confidence of kill.

In May 2007, BAE Systems completed three successful tests of the APKWS. The rocket hit the target within the 2-meter requirement of a laser spot that was designating the target. The primary objective of the tests was to collect tactical guided rocket performance data. The tests marked the program’s eighth, ninth and tenth successful ground launches and the first series using the system’s production-ready configuration.