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Ukraine Showcases Su-27 with GBU-39 Precision Bombs for First Time.
A recent video released by the Ukrainian military on X showcases the integration of GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs on a Su-27 Flanker, marking a significant advancement in Ukraine’s precision strike capabilities. This development, following sightings of MiG-29 Fulcrums equipped with the same bombs, highlights the adaptability of Ukraine’s fighter fleet in response to the Russian invasion.
The video reveals the loading of GBU-39 bombs on a Su-27 using the BRU-61 quadruple rack with a custom adapter, along with the first appearance of AIM-9X missiles in Ukraine's arsenal, enhancing Kyiv's air combat capabilities (Picture source: Ukrainian MoD/Boeing)
The GBU-39B Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) is a 250-pound, precision-guided munition designed for long-range strikes in all weather conditions. Using the Global Positioning System (GPS) for target navigation, the bomb can reach over 40 nautical miles (approximately 74 km) when dropped from altitude. Its compact size allows aircraft to carry multiple SDBs in one sortie, maximizing strike capacity while reducing collateral damage. Thanks to the BRU-61 rack, which holds up to four bombs, it significantly enhances aircraft payload and sortie efficiency.
Developed by Boeing to meet the Air Combat Command’s requirements, the GBU-39B was initially deployed on the F-15E Strike Eagle and is expected to be compatible with platforms such as the F-16, B-1 Lancer, F-22, and F-35. First produced in 2005 and delivered in 2006, the GBU-39B has become a key air weapon, capable of penetrating fortified targets and evading detection by adversarial air defenses thanks to its GPS/INS guidance system.
The video also shows the loading of GBU-39 bombs using the BRU-61 quadruple rack mounted on a custom adapter under the Su-27’s original pylon, as well as the first sighting of AIM-9X missiles in Ukraine’s arsenal, broadening Kyiv’s air combat capabilities. AIM-9X missiles are also used in the NASAMS air defense system and by Ukraine’s F-16s, though in their earlier AIM-9L(M) versions.
The strategic role of Su-27s in Ukraine’s ongoing conflict is considerable. Pilots from Ukraine’s 831st Tactical Aviation Brigade, the frontline unit that first received Su-27s in 1985, report intense aerial combat against Russian forces as they work to deny Russia air superiority. Alongside air-to-air roles, where they use Soviet-era R-27 Alamo and R-73 Archer missiles, the Su-27s are now deployed in air-to-ground missions with Western munitions such as AGM-88 HARM, GBU-62 JDAM-ER, AASM Hammer, and the newly integrated GBU-39 SDB.
Ukrainian Su-27s differ from Russian models, such as the Su-35, in avionics and overall performance. While Ukraine’s Su-27s received radar and communications upgrades in the early 2010s, they remain less advanced than the Su-35, which boasts an AESA radar and enhanced weapons systems. Despite this technological gap, Ukrainian pilots have effectively used tactics to offset Russian advantages.
The United States recently ordered additional GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bombs, both for its own Air Force and foreign allies, including Ukraine (Picture source: Ukrainian MoD)
The Ukrainian Su-27 fleet also sports an American-inspired “Compass Ghost Gray” camouflage, similar to that of the F-15. This livery, observed on three Su-27s, is intended to reduce visual detection by enemy air defenses and aircraft, reflecting efforts to safeguard these valuable assets, especially as Ukraine is the only European operator of Su-27s outside Russia and Belarus.
Ukraine inherited approximately 70 Su-27s from the Soviet Union, though the number of operational aircraft has dwindled over time due to maintenance challenges and parts shortages, with around 26 in service as of 2021. In addition to standard models, Ukraine possesses upgraded versions, including the Su-27S1M, Su-27P1M, Su-27UBM1, and Su-27PU1M, equipped with NATO-standard components and GPS systems. With support from the United States, Kyiv has successfully integrated several Western weapons, including the recently showcased GBU-39 and, potentially, the UK-supplied Paveway IV bombs.
Attempts to equip Ukrainian MiG-29s and Su-27s with Western air-to-air missiles were reported, but no successful integration occurred. Consequently, Ukrainian aircraft continue to rely on Soviet-made missiles for air combat, although AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9 missiles are available for NASAMS defense systems and F-16s.
The United States recently ordered additional GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bombs, both for its own Air Force and foreign allies, including Ukraine. On September 30, the U.S. Department of Defense announced a multi-year contract with Boeing, valued at up to $6.9 billion, covering the production and delivery of an unspecified quantity of GBU-39/B bombs through to December 31, 2035. The contract includes supply to allied nations such as Japan, Bulgaria, and Ukraine, under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.
In May, reports confirmed that Ukraine’s Air Force had adapted Soviet-era combat aircraft to deploy GBU-39 bombs, signaling a broader effort to enhance strike capabilities amid ongoing conflict.