BAE Systems said it has completed the initial test of its APKWS laser-guided rockets from a tactical configuration ground-based weapon system.
“Our customers see the value in low-cost, precision-strike capabilities that reduce the risk of collateral damage, and they want the flexibility to deliver them from the platform of their choice,” said Greg Procopio, director of Precision Guidance and Sensing Solutions at BAE Systems. “Demand is growing for ground-to-ground precision munitions that provide a safe standoff distance for small ground units. We’re working closely with our customer and partners to deliver that capability.”
Testing occurred at the Army’s Yuma Proving Ground, in collaboration with the Navy and Arnold Defense, a premier manufacturer of rocket launchers. The effort involved using Arnold’s FLETCHER 2.75-inch/70mm Weapon System concept to fire several successful shots.
The test exercise demonstrated APKWS rockets flexibility to deliver standoff precision strike capabilities for ground forces, providing a unique solution for engaging targets with greater range than small arms fire and without the need for air support.
“We designed FLETCHER specifically as a ground launcher for precision-guided 70mm rockets,” Arnold Defense President and CEO Jim Hager said. “FLETCHER-launched APKWS rockets enable our military customers to engage targets from more than just airborne platforms. We envision FLETCHER being used on everything from trucks and tracked vehicles to marine platforms in the future.”