US approves $138.3 million sale of Hellfire, APKWS missile to Czech Republic

Europe, News, US July 21, 2024 , by IRIA No Comments

The U.S. State Department has approved the sale of Hellfire air-to-surface missiles and Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS) to the Czech Republic. This transaction, valued at approximately $138.3 million, includes 200 AGM-114R Hellfire missiles, four Hellfire captive air training missiles, and 600 WGU-59A/B APKWS II.

The sale also encompasses support equipment, dummy cartridge rounds, training, and technical support, ensuring comprehensive integration of these advanced weapons systems into the Czech military arsenal. These armaments will be utilized with the new fleet of 10 AH-1Z Viper helicopters purchased from the US, with four delivered in 2019 and six more slated for 2023.

The AGM-114R Hellfire missile, a semi-active laser-guided weapon, is known for its versatility and effectiveness against a wide range of targets. With a multi-purpose warhead, it is capable of neutralizing armor, air defenses, patrol boats, and enemy combatants in various environments such as buildings, open areas, SUVs, and caves. Manufactured by Lockheed Martin, the Hellfire missile can strike targets from a range of 8 kilometers and an altitude of 3,000 feet.

In contrast, the APKWS is an air-to-ground weapon that integrates a laser guidance kit with the unguided Hydra 2.75-inch rocket. It can be deployed from both rotary and fixed-wing aircraft, offering a precision strike capability within a range of 4 to 12 kilometers (3 to 7.4 miles). BAE Systems, the principal contractor for APKWS, touts its effectiveness in providing a precision strike solution that bridges the gap between unguided rockets and expensive missile systems.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) report said the proposed sale aims to strengthen the Czech Republic’s homeland defense and deter regional threats. “This will contribute to its military goals of updating capability while further enhancing interoperability with the United States and other allies,” the Pentagon agency stated.

*^{U.S. Army AH-1Z Viper helicopter firing AGM-114 Hellfire missile. (Image Credit: Lockheed Martin)}*

U.S.-based defense giants, Lockheed Martin and BAE Systems, are the primary contractors for the Hellfire missiles and APKWS. Both companies are renowned for their expertise in developing cutting-edge military technologies. Lockheed Martin, a global leader in defense and aerospace, has a long history of providing advanced missile systems to US and allied forces. BAE Systems, known for its innovative defense solutions, has been a key player in developing precision-guided munitions like the APKWS.

A wave of military modernization

This arms deal comes at a critical juncture, as European nations ramp up their military modernization efforts in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The conflict has underscored the importance of advanced military capabilities and interoperability among NATO allies.

In recent years, European countries have been investing in modernizing their military forces to address new security challenges. The Czech Republic’s acquisition of Hellfire missiles and APKWS is part of a broader strategy to enhance its defensive and offensive capabilities. This move aligns with similar efforts by other European nations to upgrade their military hardware, improve cyber defense, and bolster air and missile defense systems.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has significantly influenced these modernization efforts. The conflict has highlighted the need for advanced weaponry, rapid deployment capabilities, and enhanced coordination among NATO allies. Countries like Poland, Romania, and the Baltic states have also announced significant defense procurements and upgrades to their military infrastructures in response to the heightened threat from Russia.