Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System vs. Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II

Attribute	Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System	Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II
Manufacturer	BAE Systems	BAE Systems
Warhead	15-pound (6.8 kg) blast-fragmentation	10-pound (4.5 kg) multi-purpose
Guidance System	Laser guidance	Laser guidance
Range	5 miles (8 km)	5 miles (8 km)
Platforms	Fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, UAVs	Fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, UAVs

Introduction

The Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) and Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II (APKWS II) are both laser-guided rocket systems developed by BAE Systems. These systems are designed to provide precision strike capabilities for military aircraft, allowing for more accurate and effective engagement of targets. While both systems serve similar purposes, there are key differences in their attributes and capabilities that set them apart. In this article, we will compare the APKWS and APKWS II in terms of their design, performance, and overall effectiveness.

Design

The APKWS is a mid-body guidance kit that can be attached to existing unguided 2.75-inch rockets, such as the Hydra 70 rocket. This kit includes a semi-active laser guidance system that allows the rocket to home in on laser-designated targets with high precision. In contrast, the APKWS II is a fully integrated system that features a guidance section and warhead, making it a complete laser-guided rocket. The APKWS II is designed to be a more streamlined and efficient system compared to its predecessor, with improved aerodynamics and overall performance.

Performance

One of the key differences between the APKWS and APKWS II is their range capabilities. The APKWS has a maximum range of approximately 5 kilometers, while the APKWS II has an extended range of up to 10 kilometers. This increased range allows for greater standoff distances and improved target engagement capabilities. Additionally, the APKWS II features a more advanced guidance system that provides enhanced accuracy and reliability, making it a more effective weapon system overall.

Warhead

Another important aspect to consider when comparing the APKWS and APKWS II is their warhead capabilities. The APKWS features a 10-pound high-explosive warhead, which is effective against a wide range of targets, including light armored vehicles and personnel. In contrast, the APKWS II is equipped with a more powerful warhead that offers increased lethality and effectiveness against hardened targets. This upgraded warhead allows the APKWS II to deliver more precise and devastating strikes on enemy positions.

Guidance System

Both the APKWS and APKWS II utilize laser guidance systems to accurately track and engage targets. However, the APKWS II features a more advanced guidance system that incorporates improved algorithms and software for enhanced target tracking and engagement. This advanced guidance system allows the rocket to adjust its trajectory in real-time to ensure precise hits on designated targets. The APKWS II also has the ability to engage moving targets with greater accuracy, making it a more versatile and effective weapon system in combat situations.

Cost and Availability

When considering the cost and availability of the APKWS and APKWS II, it is important to note that the APKWS II is a more modern and advanced system, which may result in higher production costs. However, the increased capabilities and effectiveness of the APKWS II may justify the higher cost for military organizations seeking a more capable precision strike weapon system. Additionally, the APKWS II is currently in production and available for procurement, while the APKWS may still be in service with some military units.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System and Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II are both valuable precision strike weapon systems that offer enhanced capabilities for military aircraft. While the APKWS and APKWS II share similarities in their laser-guided rocket technology, there are key differences in their design, performance, warhead capabilities, guidance systems, and cost. Ultimately, the APKWS II stands out as a more advanced and effective weapon system with improved range, lethality, and accuracy. Military organizations looking to upgrade their precision strike capabilities may find the APKWS II to be a more suitable option for their operational needs.