In support of the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS), the U.S. Department of War (DoW) has reached a framework agreement with BAE Systems to ramp up production of the APKWS laser-guidance kit. The multi-year agreement, extending across the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps, applies to the procurement of as many as 25,000 APKWS guidance sections per year for as long as seven years.

The APKWS is a combat-proven interceptor for missiles and other aerial threats and is steered with the aid of the APKWS laser-guidance kit. 

Regarding the agreement with BAE Systems, Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment, Michael P. Duffey, noted, “The Arsenal of Freedom exists for one purpose: to guarantee our warfighters decisive advantage on the battlefield.”

Concerning the extended period of the agreement, Duffey added, “By securing multi-year demand, this agreement keeps production lines running at capacity, provides our forces with interceptor inventory, and flips the cost calculus in the taxpayer's favor.” 

The seven-year span helps BAE Systems procure components and parts with long lead times and expand its skilled workforce accordingly. The long contract time provides a basis and pathway to surge production to as high as 35,000 APKWS units per year as may be needed in support of international allies.