Video: U.S. Fighter Jet Shoots Down Houthi Drone with Low-Cost, High-Precision Missile (X @CENTCOM)
A U.S. fighter jet shot down a Houthi drone using a 70mm laser-guided APKWS II missile. U.S. Central Command released a video of the incident, though it did not reveal details on the location, timing of the interception, or the exact type of aircraft involved.
In January, it was announced that U.S. F-16 fighters on missions in the Red Sea were equipped with these missiles, a cheaper alternative to the AIM-9X, which costs around $420,000, while the APKWS II system costs about $15,000, excluding other components.
The APKWS II was originally developed to destroy lightly armored targets with high precision and low cost. Based on the unguided Hydra 70 missile, it received a semi-precise guidance system, increasing its accuracy and range up to 15 km.
To be used, the aircraft or helicopter needs to be equipped with a laser targeting system, such as the Litening 5 or Sniper XR pods. In December 2019, the U.S. Air Force tested the APKWS against a drone simulating a cruise missile, demonstrating similar performance to the AIM-120.
In addition to air use, in 2021, the missile was also tested from a ground launcher, proving its capability against ground targets and small drones. Recently, the presence of these missiles on F-16 fighter jets has reinforced their use in real combat situations.
With an improved engine and advanced warhead options, the APKWS II has established itself as a versatile and cost-effective option for air defense missions and precision strikes.
Source: Militarnyi | Photo: X @CENTCOM | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
U.S. Fighter aircraft shoot down Iran-backed Houthi one-way-attack drones with AGR-20 FALCO Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) Laser Guided 2.75″ Rockets.#HouthisAreTerrorists pic.twitter.com/bDoVnKwotc
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 19, 2025
