Ukrainian Su-27s start using new 500-kilogram guided bomb
Illustrative photo: SU-27 (facebook.com/kpszsu)
Ukraine's Su-27s are likely to start using the 454-kilogram Mark 83 bombs, which have been adapted to the JDAM-ER planning and correction kit, The Aviationist reports.
The media outlet notes that since 2023, Ukraine’s Defense Forces have actively used 226-kilogram JDAM-ER bombs. However, new evidence confirms that the Ukrainian Armed Forces now possess even more powerful weaponry. The new 453-kilogram variant was likely developed specifically for Ukraine’s Air Force.
Recently, the first video showing the use of 1,000-pound JDAM-ER bombs launched from Su-27s was published.
What is known about JDAM-ER
The standard JDAM-ER is based on the Mk-82 bomb, but the new model is likely to be based on the 1,000-pound Mk-83. It is possible that the new munition will receive the designation GBU-63.
Neither Boeing nor the US military command has officially reported the development of a 1,000-pound JDAM-ER variant. It’s worth noting that JDAM-ER kits were previously used to upgrade Quickstrike Mk-62 and Mk-64 naval mines.
There is also a 1,000-pound Mk-63 Quickstrike mine, but there are no official confirmations regarding its adaptation for JDAM-ER use.
The standard JDAM kit includes a GPS/INS guidance system in the tail section and a special body casing for flight stabilization. The JDAM-ER version features an additional set of foldable wings, extending its strike range to over 64 km.
At the end of last year, it was reported that Australia had transferred several Joint Direct Attack Munition Extended-Range (JDAM-ER) bombs to Ukraine shortly after they were decommissioned by the Royal Australian Air Force.
