APKWS II, a U.S. Navy-led development program, recently completed the developmental testing (DT) and operational assessment (OA) phases with excellent performance. In both DT and OA, the system was fired off USMC AH-1W Cobra helicopters. APKWS scored 11 hits in 11 shots during developmental testing, and 8 hits in 8 shots during the operational assessment. The system is currently undergoing full system qualification. The Navy intends to complete its Milestone C decision, indicating that the system is ready for production, within the next 60 days.
APKWS is a low-cost alternative to other air-launched munitions currently in inventory. Using a mid-body guidance package that incorporates a semi-active laser seeker, the system transforms a standard 2.75” unguided rocket into a smart, highly precise laser-guided missile. Because it uses standard launchers, APKWS requires no platform integration or aircraft modifications, and because it is loaded and fired just like a standard 2.75” rocket, very little additional aviator or ordnance crew training is required. The mid-body design enables use of existing warheads, fuses, and rocket motors, thus enhancing the capability of existing inventory. APKWS provides aviators with a highly precise weapon that is effective against soft and lightly armored targets while minimizing collateral damage.
