The U.S. Department of War has awarded BAE Systems a $145 million contract to develop and produce weapons designed to counter unmanned aerial systems.
According to a report from Defence Blog, the department announced the contract on Wednesday (11th). The agreement supports the development and production of systems intended to combat unmanned aerial threats, an increasing operational concern for U.S. and allied forces. ([Defence Blog – Military and Defense News][1])
Work will be carried out in Hudson, New Hampshire, with the ordering period running from February 12, 2026, through February 12, 2031, and includes an initial delivery order valued at approximately $66 million. The first delivery under this order is expected to be completed by July 31, 2027. ([Defence Blog – Military and Defense News][1])
BAE Systems is widely known for its Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) laser‑guided rocket kits, which have been adapted for missions against unmanned aircraft systems by converting unguided rockets into laser‑guided munitions capable of precision strikes. ([Defence Blog – Military and Defense News][1])
The award was issued as a sole‑source acquisition under Federal Acquisition Regulation 6.302‑1, citing only one responsible source, and will be managed by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center at Eglin Air Force Base. ([Defence Blog – Military and Defense News][1])
Photo: Thomas Barley. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
