During a visit from the Polish MoD, Kongsberg [EURONEXT OSLO: KOG] displayed its CROWS RCWS on a Ukrainian Inguar 4x4 armoured vehicle, fitted with APKWS laser-guided rockets.
The Polish MoD visit to the Kongsberg facilities included the display of a new configuration for the CROWS RCWS, equipped with a four-round pod for AGR-20A APKWS laser-guided rockets, which have gained attention as a low-cost option against UAVs.
The RCWS is seen to be integrated on Ukraine’s Inguar 4x4 armoured vehicle, hinting that this might be a joint work between Kongsberg and Ukraine to field a new option for C-UAS using the proven APKWS rockets.
CROWS with APKWS can provide a two-layer coverage against UAVs with the M2 machine gun acting as a high-capacity short-range option.
From Lightweight Guided Munition to C-UAS Effector
APKWS was initially developed with the goal of providing laser guidance to Hydra 70 rockets against static and moving targets. Later on, the missile being integrated with a proximity fuse led to the discovery of a new capability that has outshone the anti-vehicle use over the course of the past few years: C-UAS. Compared to a generic short-range air defence missile, APKWS has a considerably lower unit cost due to using an existing unguided rocket and using laser guidance.
APKWS has been widely utilised by Ukraine on various platforms thanks to the low cost and fast reloading advantages against Russian UAVs. In addition to ground-based use against UAVs, the US Army is also exploring APKWS as a low-cost air-to-air munition for attack helicopters and even fighter jets.
You can read TurDef's analysis on the rise of guided rockets as C-UAS effectors here
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor:Özgür Ekşi
