General Atomics Aeronautical Systems and the US Air Force have pushed the MQ-9 Reaper drone deeper into the precision-strike role with successful tests involving APKWS laser-guided rockets.
The tests included multiple firing profiles, including engagements against aerial targets, with MQ-9A crews successfully launching the rockets using a specialized launcher system.
Conducted at the Nevada Test and Training Range, the effort moved rapidly from concept development to integration and live flight testing, highlighting the push to field new counter-drone capabilities faster.
The demonstrations also brought together US Department of Defense officials and industry partners involved in the integration effort.
“We recognize the value that a system like APKWS brings to the MQ-9 aircraft as a tool to counter one-way attack drones. APKWS can increase the number of weapons the MQ-9A is able to carry,” said David R. Alexander, president of GA-ASI.
“More than anything, this integration effort underscores how government and industry can collaborate to rapidly test and make new capabilities available to warfighters.”
Expanded Mission Set
Known as the “Reaper” in US and Royal Air Force service, the MQ-9A features a fault-tolerant flight control system and triple-redundant avionics architecture.
It is powered by a turboprop engine, enabling it to remain airborne for more than 27 hours and reach speeds of up to 240 knots (444 kilometers/276 miles per hour).
The drone can carry a wide range of payloads, including electro-optical and infrared sensors, Lynx multi-mode radar, maritime surveillance radar, electronic support measures, and laser designators.
APKWS, meanwhile, is short for Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System, a laser-guided upgrade kit that converts the widely used Hydra 70 rocket into a precision-guided munition.
Rather than replacing the rocket itself, APKWS inserts a guidance section between the warhead and motor, enabling the munition to track laser-designated targets.
Designed primarily for air-to-ground missions, the system allows aircraft and helicopters to engage small or moving targets with greater accuracy while reducing collateral damage.
The integration could eventually expand the MQ-9A’s role from a long-endurance surveillance platform into a more versatile precision-strike and counter-drone asset.
