U.S. will provide extended-range versions of GPS-guided smart bombs to Ukraine – Technology Org
These are JDAM-ER, an extended version of the Joint Direct Attack Munition, or smart bombs, which entered the service with the US Armed Forces just 8 years ago.
JDAM-ER smart guided gliding bombs. Image credit: RAAF
The first prototypes of JDAM-ER were developed in 2011, but four more years were needed to obtain all the necessary certifications and to complete mandatory testing procedures. And now, this modern long-range weapon will be coming to Ukraine, too.
It is important to note that Ukraine already has a regular version of JDAM with a maximum hit range of up to 28 km (15 nautical miles). The extended range version – JDAM-ER – nearly triples the maximum operational range, making it possible to strike enemy objects located at a distance of up to 80 km (50 miles).
The news about this particular modification of American smart gliding bombs was not officially announced by Pentagon. However, the information was revealed by Bloomberg, which cited two persons familiar with the specifics of the new $1.85 billion military assistance package that was announced on December 21.
The Pentagon spokeswoman Kelly Flynn declined to provide more comments due to possible security issues.