The Pentagon has effectively conducted trials on a novel long-range precision bomb designated for Ukraine, anticipated to be deployed on the battlefield as early as Wednesday, as disclosed by two U.S. officials and two other individuals familiar with the discussions.
Sources have indicated that Ukraine is set to receive its initial consignment of Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bombs, a cutting-edge long-range munition produced by Boeing and not yet part of the U.S. arsenal, with an official announcement imminent.
The anonymous insiders highlighted the innovative nature of this weapon, capable of covering approximately 90 miles, presenting a notable strategic advantage for Ukraine.
Long range precision Bomb (Credits: X.com)
According to one U.S. official, the new bomb constitutes “a significant capability for Ukraine,” offering an extended strike capacity that complements the country’s existing long-range firepower arsenal. The official emphasized that it represents an additional resource, empowering Ukraine to undertake more extensive operations on the battlefield.
The Army spokesperson refrained from immediate comments when approached for clarification. Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, citing operational security, declined to provide details on the timing of the deployment but emphasized ongoing collaboration with Ukraine and industry partners to swiftly deliver and integrate the capabilities into Ukrainian forces.
Developed collaboratively by Boeing and Saab, the weapon comprises a precision-guided 250-pound bomb affixed to a rocket motor, deployable from various ground launchers. While the U.S. military already possesses an air-launched version of a similar bomb, a ground-launched variant is not yet part of its inventory.
This new capability arrives at a critical juncture for Ukraine, amid a protracted stalemate on the frontlines and an ongoing quest to target Russian forces and infrastructure beyond the front lines. Ukrainian forces have received other long-range munitions in the past year, enabling strikes on Russian logistics and naval sites in Crimea.
The extended range offered by this bomb fills a strategic gap for Ukraine, especially as the country grapples with diminishing stocks of artillery and munitions.
Although new funding for Ukraine is part of a stalled $111 billion emergency supplemental on Capitol Hill, the U.S. committed to delivering the weapon to Kyiv through a contract signed with Boeing, despite the absence of new funds to authorize weapons transfers from existing stocks.
Ukraine’s role as the first country to employ this bomb in combat positions it as a crucial test case for other nations seeking to acquire long-range munitions following Russia’s invasion in February 2022.
While the Biden administration announced the provision of this new bomb to Ukraine in February last year, extensive testing was a prerequisite before deployment, with the Army overseeing the trials and granting approval for its transfer to Ukraine, according to industry sources.
The air-launched version, originating in 2019, gained traction when the U.S. decided to donate it to Ukraine as part of an aid package, despite previous delays in commercial sales.
