BAE Systems has successfully completed test firing of a low-cost precision weapon launched from a Eurofighter Typhoon, to counter uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS), said the company in a press release.
“The APKWS® laser-guidance kit is a combat-proven, multi-mission solution manufactured by BAE Systems in the US. It is designed to counter a range of threats while enabling cost-effective operations and is already deployed with armed forces around the world. The company conducted the trial from its flight test development centre in Warton, Lancashire using a Royal Air Force (RAF) Typhoon test and evaluation aircraft to launch a successful strike on a ground-based target at a UK military testing range.
According to Richard Hamilton, Managing Director – Air Operations at BAE Systems’ Air sector: “This activity, supported by RAF, will provide valuable insights into how a low-cost precision weapon could be integrated in the aircraft, particularly counter UAS weapons, where affordable interception options are needed. It also forms part of a range of capability enhancements planned for Typhoon to increase the aircraft’s potency in current and future combat air operations.”
The APKWS laser-guidance kit enables air-to-surface and air-to-air strikes. Air forces are successfully operating it in combat on the F-16, A-10 and several other fixed-wing platforms, as well as a number of rotary-wing platforms, said the company. The recent trial on Typhoon paves the way for the next stage of tests on air-to-air targets.
For more information
https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/apkws-typhoon-trials
(Image: BAE Systems)