BAE Systems Partners with U.S. Department of War to Expand APKWS Production Capacity

BAE Systems and U.S. Department of War Forge Landmark Agreement to Boost APKWS Production

In a pivotal development for military operations, BAE Systems has announced a groundbreaking multi-year framework agreement with the U.S. Department of War (DoW) aimed at significantly increasing the production capacity of their APKWS® (Laser-Guided Rocket) systems. This long-term commitment, which extends for up to seven years, allows for the production of up to 35,000 units per year, thereby ensuring a rapid response to changing operational demands.

The APKWS laser-guidance kits are recognized for their versatility and effectiveness in transforming standard unguided 2.75-inch rockets into precise, guided munitions. Fielded by all branches of the U.S. military, including the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Navy, these kits can be deployed across various platforms for a wide range of combat scenarios. Whether engaging unmanned aerial threats, conducting air-to-surface strikes, or responding to surface-to-air engagements, APKWS kits provide a proven solution for today's military challenges.

Tom Arseneault, the president and CEO of BAE Systems, articulated the significance of this agreement, stating, "APKWS delivers proven, reliable, and affordable precision at scale to counter evolving threats and ensure our warfighters maintain a decisive advantage." He emphasized that this framework agreement underscores the necessity of ongoing investments in essential munitions, which are vital for maintaining operational readiness for U.S. forces and their allies.

This partnership is aligned with the DoW's Acquisition Transformation Strategy, which is focused on modernizing military procurement processes and enhancing the supply chain for critical munitions. BAE Systems has made substantial investments in advanced manufacturing capabilities, skilled personnel, and robust materials to support this initiative. With the successful implementation of this agreement, BAE aims to not only streamline the production of APKWS kits but also explore upgrades, mission-specific variants, and new technologies to tackle recurring and future threats.

The manufacturing of APKWS kits takes place at BAE Systems' cutting-edge facilities located in Hudson, New Hampshire, and Austin, Texas. The company continues to leverage its extensive partner ecosystem to bolster the production process while addressing the needs of the military landscape effectively. With the threat landscape rapidly evolving, the urgent need for reliable and cost-effective precision munitions has never been more apparent, positioning BAE Systems at the forefront of defense technology.

Furthermore, BAE Systems is dedicated to advancing the capabilities of the APKWS system. The firm is exploring innovative design solutions and technological advancements to enhance the performance and effectiveness of its laser-guidance kits. This commitment reflects not only a response to current military needs but also the anticipation of future operational challenges.

As the U.S. military continues to adapt to dynamically changing threats, the need for nimble, effective, and innovative solutions becomes all the more critical. BAE Systems’ agreement with the U.S. Department of War is a significant step toward fortifying the operational capabilities of American forces, ensuring they are equipped with the munitions necessary to maintain dominance on the modern battlefield.

In conclusion, the multi-year framework agreement forged between BAE Systems and the Department of War stands as a testament to the ongoing need for collaboration between the defense industry and military organizations—working hand-in-hand to ensure that armed forces are prepared for the challenges of today and tomorrow.

For further information about BAE Systems’ APKWS laser-guidance kits, interested parties are encouraged to visit their official website or reach out directly to their media contact.