Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System
The Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) is a developmental program to provide a laser guided missile which is compatible with existing Hydra 70 unguided rocket systems in service.
Overview
Where possible the system will utilise existing Hydra 70 components such as launchers, rocket motor and warheads. The weapon will bridge the gap between the Hydra 70 and AGM-114 Hellfire systems and provide a cost-effective method of engaging lightly-armoured point targets.
Design
The APKWS II shares the Distributed Aperture Semi-Active Laser Seeker technology with the PGMM. This system allows a laser sensor to be located in the leading edge of each of the forward fins, working in unison as if they were a single sensor. This configuration allows existing warheads from the Hydra 70 system to be used without the need for a laser sensor in the nose.
Program status
- April 2006 - BAE Systems was selected as prime contractor for the APKWS II program.[1][2]