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BAE Systems’ Robot Strikes Ground Target with Laser-Guided Rocket

The RTD has a hybrid electric drive and can be equipped with various advanced payloads.

APKWS rocket fire from BAE Systems' Robotic Technology Demonstrator.
APKWS rocket fire from BAE Systems' Robotic Technology Demonstrator.
BAE Systems

BAE Systems’ Robotic Technology Demonstrator (RTD) successfully fired laser-guided rockets at multiple ground targets, with a human decision in the loop, during the U.S. Army’s tactical scenario at the EDGE 22 exercise at Dugway Proving Ground. This test marked the first time an APKWS laser-guided rocket has ever been fired from a robotic combat vehicle (RCV).

The RTD has a hybrid electric drive and can be equipped with various advanced payloads such as electronic warfare sensors, various gun systems, anti-tank guided missiles and 2.75” rockets with BAE Systems’ APKWS laser-guidance kit. The vehicle also can be fitted with loitering munitions to defeat armored and unmanned aerial threats.

“Over the past year, we’ve partnered with leading technology companies to build an autonomous vehicle that will exceed the Army’s RCV medium requirements,” said Helen Park, Future Tech Works director at BAE Systems. “This successful demonstration proves that our unmanned vehicle can be integrated and updated with cutting-edge technology, payloads, and weapon systems to support multiple mission sets and deliver advanced capability in a multi-domain operational environment.”

Ground-launched APKWS rockets provide mounted units with a capability to engage ground targets and unmanned aerial vehicles at ranges up to six kilometers.

Future Tech Works (FTX) is a new organization within BAE Systems that works closely with engineering experts and customers to identify, develop and test solutions for the defense needs of the future.

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