Rockets

The LI 351010 - Rockets line item in the Air Force's Fiscal Year 2026 budget focuses on the procurement of advanced rocket systems and associated equipment to support a range of operational missions. The primary goal is to provide the Air Force with precision-guided rocket capabilities, specifically through the acquisition of the WGU-59BB Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II (APKWS II) with Fixed-Wing Air-Launched Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (cUAS) Ordnance (FALCO) software. These systems are designed for deployment on A-10, F-15, and F-16 aircraft, enhancing their ability to engage moving, transient, and unmanned aerial targets in diverse operational environments.

The WGU-59BB APKWS II with FALCO software is a key component of this procurement line. Its objective is to convert standard 2.75-inch unguided rockets into precision laser-guided munitions, thereby increasing accuracy and reducing collateral damage. The FALCO guidance section features a mid-body, semi-active laser guidance and control kit, which is compatible with both new and existing inventories of rocket motors, warheads, and launchers. Guidance sections are procured through the Department of the Navy PMA-242 at Patuxent River Naval Air Station, ensuring interoperability and joint service support.

The 2.75-inch rocket system serves multiple Air Force missions, including those requiring low collateral damage. The HA07 rocket motor is a single-stage, solid grain motor capable of propelling both guided and unguided payloads. It is designed to carry the WGU-59BB guidance section and M151 High Explosive warheads, which are available with either proximity or point detonating fuzes. These rockets are launched from reusable LAU-131A/A and LAU-68F/A extended length launchers, engineered to accommodate both legacy and APKWS II rockets. Procurement of these items is managed by AFLCMC/EBH through the U.S. Army Missile Command and the Department of the Navy, ensuring cross-service coordination and supply chain efficiency.

The M151 warhead provides a low-cost, low-collateral damage capability, with options for proximity or point detonating fuzes to increase target engagement flexibility. The program also includes procurement of support equipment such as testers, fixtures, and tools necessary for the assembly and testing of APKWS or unguided rockets. These assets are critical for maintaining readiness and ensuring the reliability of the rocket systems.

The LAU-131A/A and LAU-68F/A launchers are seven-tube, extended length launchers designed to support both legacy and APKWS II rockets. Their extended length accommodates the guidance and control section, enabling the integration of advanced targeting capabilities. These launchers are essential for operational flexibility and are compatible with a variety of aircraft platforms, further enhancing the Air Force's ability to respond to evolving threats.

Procurement activities for this line item are conducted in accordance with Section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, supporting both active and reserve components for homeland defense, emergency response, and military support to civil authorities. The program is structured to address production challenges such as Diminishing Manufacturing Sources (DMS), material shortages, and obsolescence through targeted studies, bridge buys, and supplier replacement initiatives. Funding may also be used to procure inventoried items on an as-needed basis, allowing for flexibility in meeting emerging operational requirements.

The LI 351010 - Rockets program leverages digital acquisition principles, investing in analytical tools, information management, data environments, and security infrastructure upgrades to support development and sustainment. It aligns with Department of Defense and Air Force enterprise IT solutions, ensuring modernized and resilient capabilities. No funding is requested for FY 2026, reflecting current inventory objectives and planned expenditures, which are subject to adjustment based on combatant commanders' requirements and operational needs. Funding for this program is contained in Program Elements PE 0207599F and PE 0208030F.