The United States Air Force (USAF) together with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) have conducted flight tests of the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) using a MQ-9A Reaper.
On May 11, 2026, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems said the remotely piloted MQ-9A Reaper was deployed recently at the Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR) in the presence of Department of War stakeholders and industry partners.
“The demonstration featured multiple types and variations of shot profiles, including aerial targets. All shots were executed flawlessly by the MQ-9A crews using laser-guided rockets and a specialized launcher,” said a spokesperson for GA-ASI.
Developed by BAE Systems, APKWS is designed to “provide affordable surgical-strike capability” to multiple rotary-wing and fixed-wing platforms, as well as unmanned aerial vehicles, static and mounted ground platforms, and maritime vessels.
“We recognize the value that a system like APKWS brings to the MQ-9 aircraft as a tool to counter one-way attack drones,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “APKWS can increase the number of weapons the MQ-9A is able to carry, as well being able to carry new lower cost weapons. More than anything, this integration effort underscores how government and industry can collaborate to rapidly test and make new capabilities available to warfighters.”
