First use of APKWS against Russian Kh-59 missile reported

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The incident took place on January 25th, when Ukraine's naval forces showcased their capability to neutralize the Kh-59 missile, launched by a Russian Su-57 aircraft targeting civilian infrastructure at the Pivdennyi commercial port.

This marks the first documented instance of APKWS being used against a missile. Previously, Ukrainian forces had mainly used the system to take out Iranian-made Shahed drones.

What is APKWS?

The Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) is a precision-guided weapon that converts 70-mm Hydra 70 unguided rockets into semi-active laser-guided munitions. Data about Germany providing these missiles to Ukraine came to light in 2023.

Modern warfare is being redefined by Ukraine's innovations.

These rockets are part of the Vampire system, which was developed to counter drones. Fourteen Vampire systems have been ordered for the defense forces of Ukraine.

About the Vampire system

L3Harris Technologies, a U.S.-based tech company, developed the Vampire system, which targets unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with small, precision-guided missiles. The system has a four-barreled rocket launcher and can be mounted on commercial vehicles, offering flexibility and mobility for use in defense operations.

Ukrainian forces maintain a strong position in Velyka Novosilka, with no potential for encirclement.

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Section: Russian war

Author: Дем'ян Шевко