Defence

BAE Systems' RTD hits ground target with APKWS

Posted 6 July 2022

BAE Systems’ Robotic Technology Demonstrator (RTD) has successfully fired Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) laser-guided rockets at multiple ground targets - with a human decision in the loop - at the US Army’s tactical scenario at the EDGE 22 exercise at Dugway Proving Ground.

Above: BAE Systems' Robotic Technology Demonstrator (RTD) fires laser-guided rockets at multiple ground targets during the US Army’s EDGE 22 exercise at Dugway Proving Ground.
Courtesy BAE Systems

This test marked the first time an APKWS laser-guided rocket has ever been fired from a Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV).

The autonomous RTD meets the Army’s needs for a RCV medium solution. Multi-mission capable, the RTD has a commercially-proven hybrid electric drive and can be equipped with various advanced payloads such as electronic warfare sensors, various gun systems, anti-tank guided missiles and 2.75” rockets with BAE Systems’ APKWS laser-guidance kit. The vehicle also can be fitted with loitering munitions to defeat armoured and unmanned aerial threats.

“Over the past year, we’ve partnered with leading technology companies to build an autonomous vehicle that will exceed the Army’s RCV medium requirements,” said Helen Park, Future Tech Works director at BAE Systems. “This successful demonstration proves that our unmanned vehicle can be integrated and updated with cutting-edge technology, payloads, and weapon systems to support multiple mission sets and deliver advanced capability in a multi-domain operational environment.”

Ground-launched APKWS rockets provide mounted units with a unique capability to engage ground targets and unmanned aerial vehicles at ranges up to six kilometres. This provides warfighters with a cost-effective solution for precision strike with greater range than small arms fire and without the need for air support.

Future Tech Works (FTX) is a new organisation within BAE Systems that works closely with engineering experts and customers to identify, develop and test solutions for the defence needs of the future. FTX reimagines the battlefield to modernise and deliver technologies that help keep service members safer, more agile and ready to tackle any threat.

BAE Systems is investing in the future of battle to help the US Army deploy the most capable RCV solution for current and future modernisation needs. Work on this programme is taking place in Sterling Heights, Michigan.