Department of War and BAE Systems Sign Major APKWS Production Deal

CounterUASWorld Summary

The U.S. Department of War (DoW) and BAE Systems have signed a multi-year framework agreement to significantly increase production of the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS), a combat-proven interceptor used against aerial threats, including drones. The agreement outlines procurement of up to 25,000 APKWS guidance sections annually for up to seven years, subject to congressional approval, while providing a pathway to expand production to 35,000 units per year to support allied requirements through Foreign Military Sales. The initiative is intended to strengthen U.S. and allied counter-drone capabilities, ensure a sustained interceptor inventory, and expand domestic manufacturing capacity. The effort is supported by the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps as part of a broader strategy to enhance layered air defense against evolving unmanned threats.