Washington (Agencies): The United States has approved the sale of 2,000 BAE Systems AGR-20 Falco Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II (APKWS II) 70 mm laser-guided rocket systems to Saudi Arabia. The deal, valued at $100 million, was announced by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on March 20 and includes related equipment and services.
According to the DSCA, the sale aims to enhance Saudi Arabia’s ability to address current and future threats with precision, reducing the risk of collateral damage compared to other guided missile systems. The intended host platforms for the APKWS II were not disclosed, but the rockets are compatible with Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters and AH-6SA light attack helicopters, both of which are in service in Saudi Arabia.
The APKWS II, developed by BAE Systems in collaboration with the US government, transforms standard 70 mm Hydra rockets into precision-guided munitions. It uses Distributed Aperture Semi-Active Laser Seeker (DASALS) technology, enabling accurate targeting of soft and lightly armored targets. The system is cost-effective, weighing less and costing about one-third of traditional laser-guided weapons, making it an efficient solution for precision strikes.
The rockets have an effective range of 1,100–5,000 meters for rotary-wing platforms and up to 11 kilometers for fixed-wing platforms. They are compatible with various platforms, including helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, and ground-based launchers, and have been combat-proven for over a decade.
The APKWS II is widely used globally, with multiple countries adopting the system due to its cost-effectiveness and precision-guided capabilities. Its deployment has strengthened defense operations worldwide, offering an affordable alternative to traditional guided missile systems.
The DSCA emphasized that the sale aligns with US strategic objectives to strengthen the capabilities of allied nations, particularly in the Gulf region. Saudi Arabia has been a key partner in regional stability, and this deal is expected to bolster its precision-strike capabilities.
This approval follows a 2019 contract awarded to Boeing to integrate the APKWS II onto Saudi Arabian National Guard helicopters. The system’s semi-active laser guidance and low-collateral damage capabilities make it a vital tool for urban and battlefield scenarios.
The sale underscores the growing importance of precision-guided munitions in modern warfare and highlights the US commitment to supporting its allies with advanced defense technologies.