Typhoon test fires APKWS to counter UAS threats

Image courtesy BAE Systems

The Advanced Precision Kill Weapons System (APKWS) laser-guidance kit is a combat proven, multimission solution manufactured by BAE Systems in the US, that transforms an unguided 70 millimetre rocket into a precision-guided rocket. It is designed to counter a range of threats while enabling cost-effective operations and is already deployed with armed forces around the world. 

The Company conducted the trial from its flight test development centre in Warton, Lancashire using a Royal Air Force (RAF) Typhoon test and evaluation aircraft to launch a successful strike on a ground-based target at a UK military testing range. 

Richard Hamilton, Managing Director – Air Operations at BAE Systems’ Air sector, said: "As the UK’s sovereign provider of combat air capability, we play a crucial role in supporting the UK armed forces – working closely with the Ministry of Defence to develop technologies that strengthen our national defence capabilities. 

"This trial with the APKWS laser-guidance kit on Typhoon demonstrates a game-changing capability and a cost-effective solution that would enhance Typhoon’s already impressive range of weapons capabilities."
    
This activity, supported by RAF, will provide valuable insights into how a low-cost precision weapon could be integrated in the aircraft, particularly counter UAS weapons, where affordable interception options are needed. It also forms part of a range of capability enhancements planned for Typhoon to increase the aircraft’s potency in current and future combat air operations.  

The Eurofighter Typhoon carries a wide range of advanced air-to-air and air-to-surface weapons, making it the combat aircraft of choice of air forces across Europe and the Middle East. This includes Meteor long range air to air missiles, Storm Shadow and Brimstone air to surface weapons for deep strike and precision attack roles.  

The APKWS laser-guidance kit enables air-to-surface and air-to-air strikes. Air forces are successfully operating it in combat on the F-16, A-10 and several other fixed-wing platforms, as well as a number of rotary-wing platforms. 

The recent trial on Typhoon paves the way for the next stage of tests on air-to-air targets.