Acquiring the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System is an economical decision for eliminating low-cost small armed drones.
This APKWS is a laser-guided rocket designed to target both airborne and surface objectives, as noted in Thursday’s statement.
“The suggested sale is set to enhance Saudi Arabia’s capacity to deal with current and future threats, providing it the means to engage targets precisely with a reduced risk of accidental damage compared to traditional guided missile systems,” the statement from Thursday emphasized.
With a cost of approximately $22,000, the APKWS is a budget-friendly option for taking down cost-effective small armed drones, such as those utilized by Yemen’s Houthi insurgents.
On Thursday, the Pentagon’s Defense Security Cooperation Agency informed Congress about the potential sale of 2,000 APKWS along with related equipment and training.
“Such proposed sale will bolster the foreign policy goals and security objectives of the United States by enhancing the stability and progress of a partner country in the Gulf,” the Pentagon stated.
Even with the State Department’s approval, the sale negotiation has not been concluded, and no contract is currently in place. BAE Systems will be the primary contractor for the sale, according to the Pentagon.
This possible sale arises as the US maintains its operations against Houthi targets in Yemen, which commenced last Saturday, resulting in the deaths of at least 31 individuals in the largest campaign since President Donald Trump’s return to the White House in January.
