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Australia Supports Ukraine with JDAM-ER Precision Bombs Retired from Royal Australian Air Force.
As a measure of support to Ukraine, Australia has donated several Joint Direct Attack Munition Extended-Range (JDAM-ER) bombs, which were previously withdrawn from the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). This decision aligns with Australia’s Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Plan, unveiled on October 30, 2024, which detailed the 2021 retirement of the Australian-built JDAM-ER Mk.82 500lb bombs. Following a strategic review of Australia's defense capabilities, these munitions were withdrawn alongside the RAAF’s F/A-18A/B Classic Hornet fleet.
A Royal Australian Air Force F/A-18 Hornet in flight with two JDAM-ER 500lb bombs and two Time Space Position (Picture source: Royal Australian Air Force)
JDAM-ER represents a technological advancement developed by the Australian Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) in the early 2000s, in collaboration with Boeing and Ferra Engineering. This conversion kit transforms standard unguided bombs into GPS-guided precision munitions, extending their range and improving their effectiveness. Ferra Engineering continues to produce JDAM-ER kits under an agreement with Boeing, valid through 2028, ensuring ongoing availability of this advanced capability.
JDAM-ER kits, as an enhancement to the JDAM system, convert unguided bombs into precision-guided munitions using GPS and inertial navigation, with the ability to operate in all weather conditions. The addition of an extended-range wing kit increases the standoff range of the munitions, allowing for safer release distances and reducing exposure risks for the aircraft and its crew. With a guidance system that offers an accuracy of approximately seven meters, JDAM-ER proves highly effective against a wide variety of ground and maritime targets, even in challenging weather.
Adaptable for different bomb types, including the MK-80 and BLU series, the JDAM-ER is compatible with a range of aircraft, including modern fighter jets and certain drones. This versatility makes it a valuable asset for missions from ground strikes to close air support. Its adaptable architecture allows for cost-effective upgrades to existing bomb inventories, thereby providing enhanced precision strike capabilities without the need for additional resources.
Having left Australia’s active defense inventory, these bombs are intended to reinforce Ukraine's precision strike capabilities. Australian Defence Magazine confirmed that a portion of these munitions was transferred to Ukraine as part of Australia’s military assistance. However, the exact timing of this transfer remains unclear. This donation forms part of a broader series of initiatives from Australia to bolster Ukrainian defense against significant security challenges.
The Ukrainian Air Force has integrated JDAM-ER bombs onto several Soviet-origin fighter jets, notably the MiG-29 Fulcrum and Su-24 Fencer. Images published in July 2023 confirmed the presence of JDAM-ER kits on Ukrainian MiG-29s, while reports from March 2023 indicated that Su-24 aircraft had also been adapted for these munitions. Such adaptations allow Ukraine to leverage Western precision munitions using Soviet-designed platforms, enhancing operational effectiveness.
Australia officially acknowledged its own supply of unspecified air-to-ground munitions to Ukraine in April 2024. During an April visit to Ukraine, Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles emphasized Australia's role in supplying precision munitions for Ukrainian operations. In July 2024, Australia announced an additional air-to-ground weaponry package as part of a $250 million aid commitment.
JDAM-ER bombs provide Ukraine with key strategic advantages in military operations. Their GPS-guided inertial navigation systems transform unguided bombs into precision munitions capable of striking targets with an approximate seven-meter accuracy, which is crucial for effectively engaging strategic objectives while minimizing collateral damage.
Moreover, the deployable wings of the JDAM-ER extend its range up to 72 kilometers, allowing bombs to be released from safer distances, reducing aircraft exposure to enemy air defenses. The integration of these munitions on fighter jets such as the MiG-29 and Su-24 demonstrates Ukraine's adaptability in utilizing Western technology on Soviet-designed platforms, thereby strengthening operational capabilities.
In addition, JDAM-ER’s guidance systems ensure consistent accuracy regardless of weather conditions, providing operational flexibility. Ultimately, using JDAM-ER enhances Ukraine’s ability to conduct precise, long-range strikes while minimizing risks to pilots and optimizing the capabilities of its existing aerial fleet.