Washington D.C. – The Department of Defense announced today a important $1.74 billion contract award to BAE Systems Information and Electronic Warfare Systems, located in Hudson, New Hampshire.The contract focuses on the production and delivery of the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II (APKWS) rounds, a crucial component in modern military operations.
Boosting Military Capabilities with APKWS
Table of Contents
- 1. Boosting Military Capabilities with APKWS
- 2. What Makes APKWS a Key Asset?
- 3. Contract Details and Timeline
- 4. The Evolution of Precision Munitions
- 5. Frequently Asked Questions about APKWS
- 6. What is the importance of the contract being a firm-fixed-price delivery order under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program?
- 7. Pentagon awards $1.74B Contract for Advanced Precision Kill Weapons System (APKWS) Rockets Advancement
- 8. Understanding the APKWS: A Game Changer in Precision Strike
- 9. Key Details of the Contract Award
- 10. How APKWS Works: Technology and Capabilities
- 11. Benefits of the APKWS System
- 12. International Adoption and Partnerships
- 13. Real-world Applications & Case Studies
- 14. Future Developments and Enhancements
- 15. Keywords for SEO Optimization
The expansive contract allows for the delivery of up to 55,000 APKWS units under full Rate Production lots. This substantial order signifies a continued investment in precision-guided munitions and an increased demand for this versatile weapon system. The APKWS is designed to transform unguided 2.75-inch rockets into highly accurate, low-cost precision weapons, capable of engaging a wide range of targets.
What Makes APKWS a Key Asset?
The APKWS system has become increasingly vital for ground troops and aerial platforms, offering a cost-effective solution for precision strikes. It notably excels in scenarios requiring minimal collateral damage, making it suitable for urban warfare and complex environments. According to a report by the Congressional Research Service in early 2024, the demand for precision-guided munitions like APKWS has risen sharply in recent years due to evolving geopolitical landscapes and increased asymmetric warfare challenges.
Did You know? The APKWS utilizes a laser-guided system, significantly enhancing its accuracy compared to traditional unguided rockets.
Contract Details and Timeline
The $1.74 billion contract represents a firm commitment to BAE Systems’ production capabilities. While specific delivery timelines were not instantly disclosed,the Department of Defense indicated a phased approach to fulfill the order,ensuring a steady supply of APKWS rounds to meet operational needs. This contract underlines the U.S. military’s priorities for maintaining a technological edge in modern warfare.
| Contractor | Contract value | units | Weapon System |
|---|---|---|---|
| BAE systems Information and Electronic Warfare Systems | $1.74 Billion | Up to 55,000 | advanced Precision kill Weapon System II (APKWS) |
Pro Tip: Understanding the capabilities of precision-guided munitions like APKWS provides insight into modern military strategy and the growing emphasis on minimizing civilian casualties.
This acquisition demonstrates the ongoing commitment of the Defense Department to provide warfighters with the tools they need to effectively address evolving threats. What impact will this increased availability of precision munitions have on future military engagements? And how will this contract influence further innovation in weapon systems?
The Evolution of Precision Munitions
The progress of precision-guided munitions represents a significant shift in military tactics over the past several decades. Early guided weapons were expensive and complex, limiting their widespread use. However, systems like APKWS have revolutionized the field by providing a relatively low-cost, highly accurate alternative. This has allowed for greater flexibility and responsiveness in combat situations.
The trend towards increased precision is expected to continue, with ongoing research and development focused on incorporating artificial intelligence and advanced sensors into future weapon systems. Sources predict a 7% annual growth in the global precision-guided munitions market through 2027, driven by geopolitical instability and the need for advanced defense capabilities (Source: MarketWatch, July 2024).
Frequently Asked Questions about APKWS
- What is the primary function of the APKWS? The APKWS transforms unguided rockets into precision-guided munitions, enabling accurate strikes against targets.
- What makes APKWS a cost-effective solution? It leverages existing rocket infrastructure and adds a relatively inexpensive guidance kit.
- How does the APKWS guidance system work? It utilizes a laser-guided system for enhanced accuracy.
- What types of targets can APKWS effectively engage? APKWS is effective against a wide range of targets, including lightly armored vehicles, personnel, and structures.
- What is the importance of this new contract for BAE Systems? This contract demonstrates the company’s position as a key supplier of advanced weapon systems to the U.S. military.
- Is the APKWS used by other countries besides the U.S.? Yes, the APKWS has been adopted by several international partners, increasing its global presence.
- What are the future developments planned for the APKWS system? Ongoing research is focused on improving range, accuracy, and integration with various platforms.
Share your thoughts on this breaking news story and let us know what you think about the future of precision warfare in the comments below!
What is the importance of the contract being a firm-fixed-price delivery order under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program?
Pentagon awards $1.74B Contract for Advanced Precision Kill Weapons System (APKWS) Rockets Advancement
Understanding the APKWS: A Game Changer in Precision Strike
The U.S. Department of Defense recently announced a meaningful $1.74 billion contract award to BAE Systems for the continued development and production of the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) rockets. This investment underscores the critical role these low-cost,highly accurate munitions play in modern warfare and highlights the Pentagon’s commitment to enhancing its precision strike capabilities. The APKWS system, frequently enough referred to as “laser-guided rockets,” has become a staple for various branches of the U.S. military and allied nations.
Key Details of the Contract Award
Contractor: BAE Systems
Total Value: $1.74 billion
Awarding Agency: U.S. Army Contracting Command – Redstone
Type of Contract: Firm-fixed-price delivery order under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.
Deliverable: Production of APKWS rockets for the U.S. Army and several international partners.
Estimated Completion Date: August 2028
This contract represents a continuation of the APKWS program, demonstrating sustained demand and confidence in the system’s performance. The FMS component indicates strong international interest in acquiring this precision strike capability.
How APKWS Works: Technology and Capabilities
the APKWS is a 70mm or 2.75-inch rocket that transforms unguided rockets into precision-guided munitions.Here’s a breakdown of its core technology:
- Guidance Section: A laser guidance kit is attached to existing 70mm rockets.
- Laser Seeker: The kit contains a laser seeker that locks onto a designated target illuminated by a laser designator.
- Control Actuators: Small fins are deployed during flight, controlled by the seeker, to steer the rocket towards the laser spot.
- Low-Cost Effectiveness: Utilizing existing rocket motors and infrastructure keeps the cost per unit substantially lower than traditional guided missiles.
This system offers a unique blend of affordability and precision, making it ideal for a wide range of applications, including:
Close Air Support: Engaging targets in close proximity to friendly forces.
Counter-Terrorism Operations: Precision strikes against terrorist targets with minimal collateral damage.
Suppression of Enemy Fire: Neutralizing enemy positions and weapon systems.
Maritime Interdiction: Targeting small boats and surface threats.
Benefits of the APKWS System
The APKWS offers several advantages over traditional weapon systems:
Reduced Collateral Damage: The precision guidance minimizes the risk of unintended harm to civilians and infrastructure.
Increased Mission Effectiveness: Accurate targeting leads to a higher probability of mission success.
Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to guided missiles, APKWS rockets are significantly cheaper to produce and deploy.
Platform Versatility: APKWS can be launched from a variety of platforms, including helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, and ground-based launchers.
Rapid Deployment: The system is relatively easy to integrate onto existing platforms, enabling rapid deployment.
International Adoption and Partnerships
The APKWS has seen significant adoption by international partners, including:
Iraq: Used extensively against ISIS targets.
Jordan: Employed in counter-terrorism operations.
Lebanon: Integrated into its air force capabilities.
Egypt: Procured for enhancing its precision strike arsenal.
Poland: Recent orders demonstrate growing European interest.
This widespread adoption highlights the global demand for affordable and effective precision strike capabilities. The FMS component of the recent contract underscores the continued expansion of the APKWS user base.
Real-world Applications & Case Studies
Operation Inherent Resolve (Iraq & Syria): The APKWS proved invaluable during the fight against ISIS. Its precision allowed coalition forces to target enemy positions in densely populated areas, minimizing civilian casualties. Numerous reports from the field documented successful engagements against ISIS vehicles,fortifications,and personnel.
U.S. Navy & Marine Corps Operations: The U.S. Navy and Marine Corps have utilized APKWS extensively in maritime interdiction and close air support roles. The system’s ability to accurately engage small,moving targets at sea has been particularly valuable.
Future Developments and Enhancements
BAE Systems is continuously working on improving the APKWS system. Current development efforts focus on:
Increased Range: Extending the effective range of the rocket.
Enhanced Guidance: Improving the accuracy and reliability of the laser seeker.
Multi-Spectrum Capability: Adding the ability to guide on different types of laser designators.
Software Updates: Refining the flight control software for optimal performance.
These enhancements will further solidify the APKWS’s position as a leading precision strike weapon system.
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