L3Harris Technologies has signed a $48.5-million contract to deliver its proprietary FALCO mechanical proximity fuzes for upgrades to the US Armed Forces’ Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS).
Short for Fixed Wing, Air Launched, Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems Ordnance, FALCO is a low-cost anti-drone technology that detonates an explosive device near targets without requiring a direct hit.
APKWS, meanwhile, is a fully operational laser-guidance kit that transforms conventional 70-millimeter rockets into precision munitions.
Related activities for the FALCO sets will be conducted at L3Harris’ plant in Cincinnati, Ohio, with deliveries scheduled until July 2027.
A notice from the US Department of Defense said that the effort could amount to $98.3 million and extend through September 2028 if additional options are exercised.
“With the US military prioritizing proven, cost-effective capabilities to counter fast-moving threats, L3Harris’ Mechanical Proximity Fuze has emerged as the trusted solution of choice,” said Scott Alexander, president of missile propulsion at L3Harris.
“This award reflects our capability to respond with speed and reliability as we expand production capacity and strengthen industrial resilience to support critical missions.”
The deal comes after Washington cleared a series of APKWS foreign military sales to Israel, Qatar, and the UAE.
Last February, APKWS developer BAE Systems reached a milestone in the guidance kit program by supplying the 100,000th system for US and partner defense forces.
