// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM
JDAM
JDAM, or Joint Direct Attack Munition, is a guidance kit that converts existing unguided "dumb" bombs into all-weather, precision-guided munitions. It uses a tail kit containing an inertial navigation system (INS) and a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver to accurately guide the bomb to a designated target.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
The Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) is a guidance kit manufactured by Boeing that transforms unguided, free-fall bombs into all-weather, precision-guided smart munitions by integrating an inertial navigation system (INS) and Global Positioning System (GPS) for highly accurate navigation to fixed or relocatable target coordinates.
BACKGROUND
The Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) is a guidance kit that converts unguided bombs, or "dumb bombs", into all-weather precision-guided munitions (PGMs). JDAM-equipped bombs are guided by an integrated inertial guidance system coupled to a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver, giving them a published range of up to 15 nautical miles (28 km). JDAM-equipped bombs range from 500 to 2,000 pounds. The JDAM's guidance system was jointly developed by the United States Air Force and United States Navy, hence the "joint" in JDAM. When installed on a bomb, the JDAM kit is given a GBU identifier, superseding the Mark 80 or BLU nomenclature of the bomb to which it is attached.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Joint Direct Attack Munition
- GPS-guided bomb
- Smart bomb kit
- Guided bomb
- PGB
USAGE NOTE
JDAMs are a cornerstone of modern air-to-ground warfare, providing cost-effective precision strike capabilities for the U.S. military and its allies.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to JDAM.
The primary developer and manufacturer of the Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) guidance kit, which converts unguided bombs into precision-guided munitions.
Develops and supplies critical navigation and guidance components, such as Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) and GPS receivers, essential for the functionality of precision munitions like JDAM. Also integrates JDAMs onto various defense platforms.
A leading provider of advanced military GPS receivers and integrated navigation systems, which are key components enabling the precision guidance capabilities of weapons systems including JDAM.
Develops and manufactures high-performance inertial navigation systems (INS) and other avionics that are critical for the guidance and accuracy of precision-guided munitions like JDAM.
Develops and manufactures various aircraft platforms that deploy JDAMs and produces advanced targeting pods (e.g., Sniper ATP) that are used in conjunction with JDAMs for enhanced target identification and designation.
Conducts extensive research and development in areas such as advanced guidance, navigation, and control technologies, and weapon system integration, directly contributing to the evolution and capabilities of precision munitions including JDAM.