The GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb
Since World War II, the U.S. military has sought to reduce the number of bombs needed to destroy a target through improved accuracy. This saves lives on the ground and reduces the risks to aircrews and aircraft. First-generation GPS-guided bombs were essentially conventional bombs with steerable fins. The Small Diameter Bomb represents a new generation of weapons that greatly reduce the explosive power needed and minimize the effects of so-called "collateral damage" to noncombatants and their property. Its smaller size allows aircraft to carry more weapons and strike up to four times as many targets on a single mission. Its lower weight permits the use of pop-out wings that can give it a glide range of more than 60 miles. It was first used in combat in Iraq during 2006.
Since World War II, the U.S. military has sought to reduce the number of bombs needed to destroy a target through improved accuracy. This saves lives on the ground and reduces the risks to aircrews and aircraft. First-generation GPS-guided bombs were essentially conventional bombs with steerable fins. The Small Diameter Bomb represents a new generation of weapons that greatly reduce the explosive power needed and minimize the effects of so-called "collateral damage" to noncombatants and their property. Its smaller size allows aircraft to carry more weapons and strike up to four times as many targets on a single mission. Its lower weight permits the use of pop-out wings that can give it a glide range of more than 60 miles. It was first used in combat in Iraq during 2006.