How does a JDAM bomb work?
How does a JDAM bomb work?
In the air, the JDAM’s GPS receiver processes signals from GPS satellites to keep track of its own position. As with other smart bombs, the control system adjusts the flight fins to “steer” the bomb in the right direction. When everything goes exactly right, the bombs generally hit within a few feet of their targets.
Why do missiles cost so much?
It’s because it’s a high performance solid fuel rocket or ram jet engine ( neither of which are cheap), a pile of high explosive ( a couple hundred at least), and of course, the guidance and sensor system, which is easily the most costly component of any missile, and is easily going to cost ten’s if not 1 or 2 hundred …
How much does a 500 pound bomb cost?
Mark 82 bomb
| Mark 82 General Purpose (GP) Bomb | |
|---|---|
| Unit cost | $2,082.50 (in 2001) |
| Variants | GBU-12 Paveway II GBU-38 JDAM |
| Specifications | |
| Mass | 500 pounds (227 kg) |
When was the first JDAM dropped in combat?
The first JDAMs were delivered in 1997 with initial operational testing conducted in 1998 and 1999. More than 450 JDAMs were dropped during this testing, recording an unprecedented 95 percent system reliability while achieving a 9.6-meter accuracy rate.
What does GBU-31 stand for?
Joint Direct Attack Munition GBU- 31/32/38. The Joint Direct Attack Munition is a guidance tail kit that converts existing unguided free-fall bombs into accurate, adverse weather “smart” munitions.
How much does a GBU-58 Laser JDAM cost?
The Navy is developing the GBU-58 Laser JDAM for the BLU-109 penetrator to field in 2018 to replace the legacy GBU-24 Paveway III weapons systems. Primary Function: Guided air-to-surface weapon. Contractor: Boeing Corporation. Unit Cost: Approximately $20,000.
What is the difference between the GBU-31(V)5/B and the blu-109a/b?
The BLU-109A/B is a thermally protected variant of the BLU-109/B. The GBU-31 (V)5/B almost certainly uses guidance kits of the KMU-556 ( )/B series. The designation GBU-32/B was allocated early in the JDAM program to 1000 lb class JDAM bombs with guidance kits from McDonnell Douglas (now part of Boeing).
What is the stand-off range of a JDAM?
From typical operating altitudes, the stand-off range of a JDAM is around 8-24 km (5-15 miles). At any time in the mission, the delivery aircraft’s pilot is informed if he is within the valid drop envelope for the desired target coordinates.