BAE successfully tests new laser-guided weapon

BAE Systems has successfully completed test firing of a low-cost precision weapon launched from a Eurofighter Typhoon based at its Warton operation in Lancashire.

The aim of the trial was to demonstrate a highly effective, affordable solution to counter uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS).

The APKWS laser-guidance kit is a combat-proven, multi-mission solution manufactured by BAE Systems in the USA.

It is designed to counter a range of threats while enabling cost-effective operations and is already deployed with armed forces around the world.

The defence giant has revealed that it conducted the trial from its flight test development centre in Warton, using an RAF Typhoon test and evaluation aircraft to launch a successful strike on a ground-based target at a UK military testing range.

The trial on Typhoon paves the way for the next stage of tests on air-to-air targets.

Richard Hamilton, managing director of air operations at BAE Systems' Air sector, said: “As the UK’s sovereign provider of combat air capability, we play a crucial role in supporting the UK Armed Forces — working closely with the Ministry of Defence to develop technologies that strengthen our national defence capabilities.

“This trial with the APKWS laser-guidance kit on Typhoon demonstrates a game-changing capability and a cost-effective solution that would enhance Typhoon's already impressive range of weapons capabilities.”

BAE says the project will provide valuable insights into how a low-cost precision weapon could be integrated in the aircraft, particularly counter UAS weapons, where affordable interception options are needed. 

It also forms part of a range of capability enhancements planned for Typhoon to increase the aircraft’s potency in current and future combat air operations.

The Eurofighter Typhoon carries a wide range of advanced air-to-air and air-to-surface weapons, making it the combat aircraft of choice of air forces across Europe and the Middle East.

This includes Meteor long‑range air‑to‑air missiles, Storm Shadow and Brimstone air‑to‑surface weapons for deep‑strike and precision attack roles.

The APKWS laser-guidance kit enables air-to-surface and air-to-air strikes. Air forces are successfully operating it in combat on the F-16, A-10 and several other fixed-wing platforms, as well as a number of rotary-wing platforms.

The engineering team behind the trial were all based at Warton and the flights involved all operated from the plant’s airfield.

The Typhoon programme supports more than 9,000 jobs in the North West with the majority directly employed by BAE Systems at its sites in Warton and Samlesbury and across the supply chain in the region.