U.S. Clears Major $364M Air-to-Air APKWS II Guided Rocket Package for Italy's Counter-Drone Defense

The U.S. has approved a potential $364 million Foreign Military Sale of 5,031 APKWS II laser-guided rocket guidance sections to Italy for integration on Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft. The APKWS II provides an air-to-air capability specifically suited for engaging slow-moving drone threats at lower cost than traditional air-to-air missiles. Italy intends to use the system to augment Typhoon's counter-UAS role within NATO air policing and national defence missions. The sale reflects growing European demand for cost-effective airborne C-UAS solutions.