DoD signs multi-year deal with BAE Systems for up to 175,000 anti-drone missiles
The U.S. Department of Defense has entered a framework agreement with BAE Systems to procure up to 25,000 APKWS guidance sections each year for seven years, potentially reaching 35,000 in a crisis.
The Department of Defense announced a framework contract with British aerospace firm BAE Systems to expand production of the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS). The arrangement calls for up to 25,000 guidance sections per year over a seven-year period, with a provision to increase to 35,000 annually if a crisis or heightened demand arises. APKWS converts the unguided Hydra 70 rocket into a laser-guided munition by inserting a modular guidance module that uses a Distributed Aperture Semi-Active Laser Seeker across its four wings.
This technology offers a cheaper way to intercept low-cost drones compared with traditional interceptors that can cost millions each. Although the contract’s monetary value remains undisclosed, Congress must still authorize and appropriate the funds. The multi-year structure is intended to give BAE Systems certainty to scale up production, hire staff, and secure components in advance, addressing concerns about interceptor shortages highlighted by recent operations.
Why it matters
It secures a low-cost, scalable solution for U.S. and allied forces to counter the growing threat of cheap attack drones.
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