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World Aviation Defense & Security News - Iraq
 
 
Iraq orders 2,000 BAE Systems' Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems for its Air Force
 
The US State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Iraq for Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS) and associated equipment, parts and logistical support for an estimated cost of $97 million. The principal contractor will be BAE Systems in Nashua, New Hampshire.
     
The US State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Iraq for Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS) and associated equipment, parts and logistical support for an estimated cost of $97 million. The principal contractor will be BAE Systems in Nashua, New Hampshire. BAE Systems' Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS)
     
The Government of Iraq has requested a possible sale of up to 2,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS), weapon and test support equipment, spare and repair parts, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, transportation, U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistical and program support. The estimated cost is $97 million.

APKWS bridges the gap between unguided small-diameter rockets and larger-diameter anti-armor munitions.

The system is compatible with autonomous and remote designator systems, allowing for long-standoff engagements. Its wide field of view and long-range laser acquisition allow precision engagements against moving and stationary targets in a variety of tactical situations and engagements.

The guidance and control section is inserted between the warhead and rocket motor using standard tools, allowing ordnance crews to transform a previously unguided rocket into a precision laser-guided rocket in the field or at a depot.

The proposed sale will improve Iraq’s capacity to sustain security operations and strengthen its internal and external defense capabilities. The sale of APKWS will increase the Iraqi Army Aviation Command’s ability to carry out operations against terrorist forces while significantly reducing risk to civilians.