BAE Systems gets $180m US Navy contract for laser-guided rocket production

BAE Systems has received a $180.5 million U.S. Navy contract to produce additional advanced precision kill weapon system (APKWSTM) laser-guided rockets to meet the growing U.S. and international demand for the systems.

According to the company, APKWS rockets are seeing increasing use in theater because they deliver cost-effective precision strikes with reduced potential for collateral damage.

The latest order, which is funded under the recently announced indefinite delivery / indefinite quantity contract, will help BAE Systems to meet increased demand.

“We’re delivering ahead of schedule even with the growing demand,” said Rachel Guill, director of Precision Guidance Solutions at BAE Systems.

APKWS laser-guided rockets allow militaries to leverage existing munitions and weapons systems investments with minimal effort and training. The APKWS mid-body guidance kit transforms standard unguided Hydra 70 (2.75-inch) rockets into accurate precision munitions by easily screwing into place between the warhead and the motor.

The technology is available to international customers through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.