Ukrainian F-16s may be equipped with low-cost APKWS II rockets, providing a cost-effective way to counter Russian drones such as the Shahed and Gerbera. This refers to the LAU-131 launcher for Hydra-70 rockets, which can employ the APKWS II semi-active laser guidance system.
This was noted by the Avia OFN Telegram channel, which published a corresponding photo. A pod was also spotted, believed to be an AN/AAQ-33 Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod used for laser designation.
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From Defense Express we would like to add that this is very good news, as the Ukrainian Air Force has finally acquired one of the best methods of countering UAVs. This will reduce the consumption of AIM-9 and AIM-120 missiles, which cost millions of dollars.
The Ukrainian F-16 can carry up to 28 70-mm rockets that provide an effective, low-cost way to shoot down enemy drones. According to recent contracts, the price remains at $30,000–31,000 per unit.
The effectiveness of APKWS II against drones was first demonstrated in Ukraine in ground-based applications, such as the Vampire air defense system. The U.S. then equipped fighter jets, including the F-15E, with these systems to target UAVs.
It was believed that Ukrainian F-16s would not receive such weapons anytime soon. However, it seems that one of the partner countries has decided to transfer the AN/AAQ-33 pods. The European operators include the Netherlands, Belgium, Norway, the United Kingdom, and Poland.
It should be noted that this pod is critically important for the use of APKWS II, as it is responsible for guidance. Without it, these are just unguided 70‑mm rockets that can only be fired in a lofted launch, as was done on Soviet aircraft.
It is currently unknown when and how many Sniper Pods and rockets were transferred, or how well the supply of ammunition for them is proceeding given U.S. policy. However, this is a good reinforcement for the defense of Ukrainian airspace.
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