US approves first sale of laser-guided precision rockets to Saudi Arabia
The United States has authorized the first-ever sale of advanced laser-guided rockets to Saudi Arabia, marking a significant development in military cooperation between the two nations. According to the Pentagon, the State Department has approved the transaction, valued at approximately $100 million, which includes the sale of Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS).
The APKWS, a laser-guided rocket system, enhances Saudi Arabia’s capability to engage both airborne and surface threats with high accuracy. This precision technology minimizes the risk of collateral damage compared to other guided missile systems, the Pentagon stated.
Each APKWS rocket costs around $22,000, making it a cost-effective option for neutralizing low-cost armed drones, such as those deployed by Yemen’s Houthi rebels. The Pentagon’s Defense Security Cooperation Agency informed Congress of the proposed sale of 2,000 units along with associated equipment and training.
The Pentagon emphasized that the sale aligns with US foreign policy objectives and national security interests by strengthening the defense capabilities of a key Gulf ally. While the State Department has given its approval, the notification does not guarantee the finalization of a contract. BAE Systems has been identified as the primary contractor for the deal.
This potential arms sale coincides with ongoing US military operations against Houthi targets in Yemen, where a series of recent strikes have resulted in significant casualties. The latest offensive, launched last Saturday, marked the largest such operation since President Donald Trump’s return to the White House in January.
-
16:30
-
16:00
-
15:30
-
15:00
-
14:30
-
14:15
-
14:00
-
13:30
-
13:00
-
12:30
-
12:00
-
11:45
-
11:30
-
11:14
-
11:00
-
10:51
-
10:35
-
10:30
-
10:00
-
09:30
-
09:00
-
08:30
-
08:00
-
22:16
-
18:30
-
18:00
-
17:30
-
17:00
