US Plans to Expand APKWS Capabilities to Engage Air Targets

The U.S. Navy plans to expand the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) to air-to-air operations through the introduction of new software, according to Naval News.

The project involves BAE Systems integrating a new True Pulse Logic algorithm into the current guidance kit block production line.

No details of the True Pulse Logic algorithm have been disclosed publicly. Its development was first mentioned in a 2023 contract between the US Air Force Research Laboratory and BAE.

Funding was increased in 2024 to a total of $38 million, with completion scheduled for 2028.

According to the contract terms, the True Pulse Logic concept is “designed not only to meet short-term needs, but also to prepare for future upgrades to the next-generation semi-active laser seeker.”

Alongside the integration of True Pulse Logic, the Navy is also assessing the feasibility of exporting both the improved guidance kit and the current APKWS versions.

APKWS

APKWS is a BAE Systems project to integrate a semi-active laser seeker into the 70 mm Hydra unguided aircraft rocket.

For anti-air use, the system is equipped with a proximity fuze, which detonates the warhead even when passing near a target, thereby increasing its effectiveness against airborne threats.

The US Air Force first used APKWS II laser-guided rockets on F-16s to intercept Houthi drones in 2024. In January 2025, reports confirmed further use by American F-16s, although published photos showed the aircraft carrying only two LAU-131/A pods.

In July, the US demonstrated an F-16 equipped with six seven-tube LAU-131/A launchers adapted for APKWS rockets.

In June, ahead of potential strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, the US redirected 20,000 APKWS-equipped anti-air missiles originally intended for Ukraine to Air Force units in the Middle East.

The missiles for Ukraine had been arranged under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative during the administration of former President Joe Biden. Although purchased through a dedicated program for Ukraine, the US Secretary of Defense can reallocate such weapons to American forces in cases of “urgent need.”