Business Insider reported that the US Navy conducted tests on a new version of the long-range JDAM bomb.
It is worth noting that JDAM bombs are originally unguided munitions that were later fitted with special navigation packages, transforming them into precision-guided munitions. Initially, the bomb lacked a motor, limiting its range to approximately 75 kilometers.
According to the US Navy Command, each bomb used in the tests traveled a distance of approximately 370 kilometers, while maintaining a stable orientation towards the target.
Business Insider noted that the new long-range version of the JDAM bombs is now equipped with a small jet engine, turning it into a precision-guided winged missile.
Thus, the bomb's range exceeds 550 kilometers when equipped with a 230 kg warhead, and can reach 1300 kilometers when an additional fuel tank is installed.
Boeing, the company responsible for developing this bomb, announced that it represents a long-range precision munition at a reasonable cost, and can compensate for the shortage of expensive long-range missiles.
It is noted that the Ukrainian army began using an older version of the JDAM bombs in 2023, but the Russian forces quickly developed ways to counter them using air defense and electronic warfare systems.
