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SDB
An SDB, or Small Diameter Bomb, is a type of precision-guided bomb that is smaller and lighter than traditional bombs. This design allows aircraft to carry more of them and strike multiple targets with high accuracy while minimizing collateral damage.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
The Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) refers to a family of air-launched, precision-guided munition systems, notably the Boeing-developed GBU-39 SDB I and Raytheon-developed GBU-53/B SDB II StormBreaker, designed for the U.S. Air Force and Navy to provide enhanced multi-target capability and reduced collateral damage through compact size and advanced guidance.
BACKGROUND
The GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) is a 250-pound (110 kg) precision-guided glide bomb that is intended to allow aircraft to carry a greater number of smaller, more accurate bombs. Most US Air Force aircraft will be able to carry a pack of four SDBs in place of a single 2,000-pound (910 kg) Mark 84 bomb. It first entered service in 2006. The Ground Launched Small Diameter Bomb (GLSDB) was later developed to enable the SDB to be launched from a variety of ground launchers and configurations.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Small Diameter Bomb
- GBU-39
- GBU-53/B
- StormBreaker
- SDB I
- SDB II
USAGE NOTE
SDBs are widely employed by modern fighter aircraft to increase weapon loadout and improve the ability to engage multiple distinct targets on a single mission.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to SDB.
Primary developer and manufacturer of the GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bomb I (SDB I), a precision-guided glide bomb designed for high accuracy and minimal collateral damage.
Developer and manufacturer of the GBU-53/B StormBreaker (formerly SDB II), an advanced precision-guided weapon with a tri-mode seeker that allows it to operate effectively in all weather conditions against moving targets.
Conducts research and development in a wide range of aerospace technologies, including advanced munition concepts, guidance systems, and weapon integration, contributing to the evolution of small, precision-guided weapons like the SDB.
A leading developer of advanced defense technologies, including various precision-guided munitions. While not the prime for SDB, they develop related technologies in guidance, seekers, and weapon miniaturization for other smart weapons.
A global aerospace and defense technology company involved in developing advanced navigation, targeting, and sensor systems for various weapon platforms, contributing to the broader field of precision-guided munitions that share common technologies with SDB.
A multinational defense, security, and aerospace company that develops sophisticated electronic systems, precision guidance technologies, and weapon components that are critical to modern precision-guided munitions, including those with SDB-like characteristics.