Precision-guided APKWS rockets are already being used by the Ukrainian Army, and the first details about them start being shared through social media. The precision of this weapon system, donated by the United States, was a central topic of our earlier article, whereas this time we'd like to pay attention to another detail: the chassis chosen for carrying the launcher.
OSINT community Ukraine Weapons Tracker has found photos showing what an APKWS fire unit looks like: a LAND-LGR4 launcher from Arnold Defense mounted on top of an M1152A1 HMMWV.
Read more: APKWS In Combat Conditions: Why There Should Be More Such High-Precision Missiles For Ukraine (Video)
The manufacturer positions its LAND-LGR4 as "lightweight, reliable and providing precision fire support previously only available utilizing aviation assets." This launching pod, however, can be equipped on ground and maritime platforms as well. Compatible with APKWS. First presented in 2017 at the DSEI forum in London.
The number of rockets in a single charge is four. Firing range: 1.1 minimum, 8 km maximum, though for precision-guided rockets it is reduced to 6 km. Empty pod weighs 27.2 kg.
Earlier Defense Express reported that vehicles equipped with APKWS systems were committed by Germany. Following the initial announcement, the officials checked these vehicles as delivered in January this year. Meanwhile, another APKWS-compatible Vampire system committed to Ukraine by the United States turns out to be further from arrival than expected. Although the US has already started providing the 70mm Hydra-70 rockets which are source material for the APKWS system once equipped with a guidance unit.
Read more: The U.S. to Provide $300 Million Defense Assistance Package to Ukraine, Including the Hydra-70 Rockets
