The U.S. State Department has approved a potential sale of Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS) to Saudi Arabia, valued at approximately $100 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of the possible sale, which includes 2,000 APKWS units, spare parts, support equipment, missile software, training, and related logistical support.
The APKWS is a laser-guided rocket system designed to engage both airborne and surface targets with high accuracy, thereby minimizing collateral damage. Each unit costs approximately $22,000, offering a cost-effective solution for countering threats such as small armed drones.
This proposed sale comes amid ongoing conflicts in the region, particularly involving Houthi forces in Yemen. The U.S. has recently intensified strikes on Houthi targets, with operations resulting in significant casualties. The conflict, which began in late 2014, has led to widespread devastation and humanitarian crises in Yemen.
While the State Department has approved the sale, this notification does not indicate that a contract has been finalized or that negotiations have concluded. BAE Systems is identified as the principal contractor for this potential sale.
The approval of this sale reflects ongoing defense cooperation between the United States and Saudi Arabia. It aims to enhance the Kingdom’s ability to address current and future threats with greater precision and reduced risk of collateral damage.
The proposed sale underscores the United States’ commitment to supporting its allies in the Middle East while maintaining oversight to ensure compliance with international standards and regional stability.
