US Clears Jordan to Buy 1,500 APKWS II Laser-Guided Rockets to Strengthen Its Air Defense

The US State Department approved a possible $100 million Foreign Military Sale to Jordan on November 2 for up to 1,500 APKWS II laser-guided rockets or guidance sections. BAE Systems is the principal contractor for the package, which includes launchers, Mk-152 warheads, MK66 motors, proximity fuzes, training rounds and support services. APKWS inserts a laser-guidance section into a 70 mm rocket, with the requested configurations supporting air-defence and other precision-engagement missions. The notification initiates congressional review and subsequent negotiations, while final quantities, launch platforms, delivery schedules and contract terms have not been announced.