The US State Department has approved a foreign military sale of laser-guided Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems II to Saudi Arabia.
The US State Department has approved a foreign military sale of laser-guided Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS) II All-Up-Rounds to Saudi Arabia, valued at $100 million.
According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the Kingdom has requested up to 2,000 APKWS units to enhance its precision targeting capabilities while minimizing collateral damage.
The sale also includes spare parts, support equipment, and missile software, as well as comprehensive training, technical, and logistical support.
If finalized, the deal would bolster Saudi Arabia’s ability to address both current and future threats.
It would also support the foreign policy goals of the US by “improving the security of a partner country that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Gulf Region,” the DSCA noted.
The sale still requires congressional approval before moving forward.
A ‘Low-Cost, Combat-Proven’ Weapon
Developed by BAE Systems, the APKWS II is a powerful weapon system that transforms standard rockets into precision-guided munitions, significantly enhancing their effectiveness.
The system uses the Mk66 Mod 4 rocket motor and is equipped with a 10-pound (4.5-kilogram) high-explosive warhead.
In addition to exceptional accuracy, the APKWS is capable of reaching a speed of up to 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) per second.
The weapon has been effectively used to destroy Houthi one-way attack drones, proving its reliability in real-world combat situations.
With an estimated cost of $22,000 per unit, the APKWS II provides a cost-effective solution for targeting low-cost aerial threats.
