In recent information released by the Ukrainian Air Force on March 31, 2023, spokesperson Yurii Ihnat confirmed that the nation's air force has now integrated JDAM (Joint Direct Attack Munition) GPS-guided precision bombs into their aircraft fleet. This advanced weaponry is expected to enhance the capabilities of the Ukrainian Air Force in their ongoing operations against the Russian armed forces.
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A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon dropped 500-pound Joint Direct Attack Munitions during a military exercise. (Picture source U.S. DoD)
According to information from the United States Department of Defense (DoD), in early March 2023, Gen. James Hecker, Chief of US Air Forces in Europe, confirmed that the United States has delivered Joint Direct Attack Munition-Extended Range (JDAM-ER) to Ukraine. The system converts unguided bombs into all-weather precision-guided munitions.
Recently, Russia has increased its utilization of guided bombs. Typically, Russian forces employ FAB-500 Soviet-era bombs, which are modified with "wings" and GPS targeting systems. Yurii Ihnat emphasized that the accuracy of these Russian bombs is often lacking, thereby posing a significant risk to civilian infrastructure.
The Ukrainian Air Force has been utilizing the so-called JDAM bombs, which are Western-manufactured precision munitions. These bombs have been effectively deployed by Ukrainian aircraft to hit vital targets. Although slightly less powerful, they boast exceptional accuracy. Ukraine is eager to acquire more of these bombs to further strengthen their success on the frontlines.
The Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) is a cutting-edge weapon system that transforms unguided bombs into precision-guided munitions. Utilizing GPS technology, JDAM enhances the accuracy and reliability of conventional bombs, allowing military forces to effectively target and strike critical enemy infrastructure in various weather conditions.
The integration of JDAMs into modern warfare has significantly improved the capabilities of air forces worldwide, minimizing collateral damage and increasing mission success rates.
The Joint Direct Attack Munition-Extended Range (JDAM-ER) is an advanced weapon system that augments the capabilities of traditional JDAMs by extending their operational range. This innovative technology equips unguided bombs with GPS guidance, transforming them into precision-guided munitions capable of striking targets accurately from greater distances. The JDAM-ER's extended range and all-weather functionality offer military forces enhanced strategic flexibility, allowing them to engage enemy assets with increased precision while minimizing collateral damage.
