Naval Air Systems Command orders 1,476 more APKWS guidance systems from BAE

NASHUA, N.H., 30 Nov. 2012. The Naval Air Systems Command has played an order with BAE Systems Inofrmation and Electronics in Nashua, N.H. for 1,476 APKWS II WGU-59/B Guidance sections, shipping and storage containers, and support data. The order is valued at $41.4 million.

The APKWS is a laser guided missile which is compatible with Hydra 70 unguided rocket launchers and components.

The APKWS is a U.S. government program of record. U.S. Marine aviators completed the initial operational test and evaluation phase of the APKWS program, firing against stationary and moving targets from AH-1W and UH-1Y helicopters. The APKWS system has since been deployed in Afghanistan, and the company continues to ship units to theater for use against insurgent forces. The APKWS has been integrated on the MQ-8B Fire Scout UAV to enable it to engage targets on land or at sea.

BAE Systems has been prime contractor on the APKWS program since 2006. The company is partnered with the Direct and Time Sensitive Strike Program Office at the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command for the development, integration, and delivery of the APKWS.

Work for this order is expected to be completed in September of 2014.