#United States #BAE Systems #Hudson #APKWS #laser-guidance

BAE Systems Reaches Significant Production Milestone

On February 24, 2026, BAE Systems proudly announced the delivery of its 100,000th APKWS® (Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System) laser-guidance kit. This notable achievement underscores the company's commitment to equipping the U.S. armed forces and their allies with advanced and reliable precision munitions. Since its inception, the APKWS technology has consistently demonstrated its effectiveness and efficiency on the battlefield, solidifying its reputation as a vital asset for modern combat operations.

The Versatility of APKWS

The APKWS guidance kit transforms standard 2.75-inch unguided rockets into precision-guided munitions, providing military forces with the ability to execute precision strikes with minimal collateral damage. This transformation enables a wide array of operations including air-to-surface, surface-to-surface, surface-to-air, and air-to-air engagements. The kit is compatible with various platforms such as rotary-wing and fixed-wing aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles, ground operators, and naval vessels. This versatility makes it a favorite among military personnel, who appreciate its adaptability and ease of use in diverse combat scenarios.

Neeta Jayaraman, the director of Precision Guidance and Sensing Solutions at BAE Systems, stated, "With over a decade of proven performance, reliability, and accuracy, APKWS guidance kits have supported precision-strike missions worldwide. This milestone demonstrates our ability to deliver innovative technology rapidly and at scale. With our new production contract, we're poised to support evolving mission needs for years to come."

Meeting Evolving Threats

The rise of emerging threats has necessitated a shift in military strategies. APKWS laser-guidance kits are specifically designed to address these modern challenges, including the counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) operations. Their combat-proven design makes them an effective solution for a variety of military applications, thereby ensuring operational success in complex environments.

Continuous Investment in Innovation

For over 12 years, BAE Systems has been engaged in full-rate production of the APKWS guidance kit. The company continually invests in research, upgrades, and mission-specific variants to adapt to changing warfare dynamics and technological advancements. By integrating new technologies into the APKWS systems, BAE maintains its competitive edge in the defense sector, ensuring that its products remain at the forefront of military effectiveness.

The production of these advanced kits occurs at BAE Systems' cutting-edge manufacturing facilities located in Hudson, New Hampshire, and Austin, Texas. The company’s commitment to quality and innovation is apparent in every unit produced, reinforcing the trust that military partners place in their capabilities.

A Look Ahead

As global military operations become increasingly complex, BAE Systems' APKWS laser-guidance kit will continue to play a pivotal role in modern warfare. The ability to adapt quickly to new missions, coupled with the technology's proven track record, positions BAE Systems favorably to address future defense challenges. The company's undeterred focus on delivering innovative, cost-effective solutions highlights its unwavering commitment to serving those who serve.

For further information about the APKWS guidance kits and their applications, please visit BAE Systems' official website.

As the landscape of conflict continues to evolve, BAE Systems remains dedicated to providing the tools necessary for successful military operations, ensuring that the armed forces are equipped for any challenge they may face in the field.