BAE Systems has reached a significant milestone by successfully launching a laser-guided munition from its TRV-150 multi-rotor drone—marking the first air-to-air engagement of its kind using an uncrewed aerial system.
During a recent trial held at the US Army’s Dugway Proving Ground in Utah, the TRV-150 deployed rockets equipped with the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS). These munitions accurately struck both airborne and ground targets without a single miss.
This is the first time APKWS-guided rockets have been launched from a drone. Previously, the system was only used from manned platforms like the AH-64 Apache helicopter and F-16 fighter jets.
The successful test dramatically expands the system’s versatility, proving it can be integrated into both manned and unmanned platforms for precision strikes.
Developed jointly by BAE Systems and SURVICE Engineering, the TRV-150 is based on the Malloy Aeronautics-designed T-150 logistics drone. Originally built to carry up to 150 pounds (68 kilograms) of supplies in diverse weather conditions, the drone can be reconfigured into an armed platform in under an hour.
The APKWS system offers an affordable alternative for counter-drone operations, with each rocket priced at around $22,000. It transforms standard unguided munitions into precision-guided weapons capable of striking moving, stationary, or even armored targets from a distance of up to 6 kilometers.
Powered by the Mk66 Mod 4 rocket motor, each missile reaches speeds up to 1,000 meters per second, ensuring rapid engagement with minimal collateral damage.
