BAE Systems completes proof-of-concept testing of surface-launched APKWS II

BAE Systems, in collaboration with the US Navy and Arnold Defense, has completed a series of proof-of-concept test shots of the AGR-20A Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II (APKWS II) 2.75/70 mm laser-guided air-to-surface rocket in a surface-to-surface role, the company announced on 1 June.

“The proof-of-concept testing demonstrated the flexibility of APKWS rockets to deliver standoff precision strike capabilities for ground forces, providing warfighters with a unique solution for engaging targets with greater range than small arms fire and without the need for air support,” BAE Systems said in a statement.

Conducted at the US Army’s Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona in late 2018, the proof-of-concept demonstration provided for an undisclosed number of ASPKWS II rounds being fired at stationary targets from a containerised weapon system that integrated a Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS) from the US government inventory and an Arnold Defense Land-LGR4 ‘Fletcher’ 2.75”/70 mm rocket launcher.

Artist’s rendering of an APKWS II launch from an Arnold Defense Land-LGR4 ‘Fletcher' 2.75-inch/70 mm laser-guided rocket launcher for ground vehicles.

Purpose-built for land platforms, the Land-LGR4 is a lightweight four-cell laser-guided rocket launcher designed to deliver single or ripple fire effects against static and moving ground targets at ranges between 1-8 km, with a stated effective precision strike range of 6 km. Weighing 25.4 kg (unloaded), 1.9 m in length, and 20.3 cm in diameter, the Land-LGR4 can be mounted on tactical lightweight vehicles, remote weapon stations, non-standard tactical vehicles, and stationary platforms.