BAE Systems Develops APKWS Missile Integration for Eurofighter Typhoon

Amid the growing threat posed by drones in Europe, BAE Systems has begun research into integrating APKWS missiles onto Eurofighter Typhoon fighters.

At the DSEI 2025 exhibition in London, BAE Systems representative Paul Smith confirmed that technical studies on integrating the APKWS II onto European aircraft were ongoing.

According to him, the company is already collaborating with the countries operating the aircraft.

The United States has already integrated these missiles onto the F-16 fighter jet for intercepting Houthi drones. They are also used on the F-15E Strike Eagle, which recently underwent testing with six seven-round APKWS II pods.

This loadout allows the F-15E to carry up to 42 precision-guided missiles simultaneously, alongside eight air-to-air missiles. This significantly enhances its capability to counter drones and cruise missiles.

Strike Eagle has a greater payload capacity and longer range than the F-16. As a result, it can stay airborne longer and engage more targets. In this configuration, the aircraft essentially becomes an airborne missile battery.

APKWS

The Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) is a BAE Systems project that involves integrating a laser-guidance seeker into a 70 mm Hydra unguided rocket.

For use as an air defense missile, the APKWS is equipped with a proximity fuse. This fuse activates the warhead even when the missile passes close to the target, increasing interception effectiveness.

Interest in the APKWS is driven not only by its efficiency but also by its low cost. For example, an AIM-120 AMRAAM costs around $1 million, and an AIM-9X exceeds $450,000.

In contrast, the laser guidance section of the APKWS II is estimated to cost between $15,000 and $20,000. This makes it an ideal option for destroying inexpensive drones.

The new missile variant – AGR-20F FALCO – features a proximity-fused warhead. Its guidance algorithms are optimized for engaging aerial targets.

In the future, an infrared sensor is planned to be added. This will enable a ‘fire-and-forget’ mode and expand the missile’s capabilities against ground and maritime targets.