Saab and Boeing conduct first launch of Ground Launched Small Diameter Bomb

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Defence & Security News - United States, Sweden
 
Saab and Boeing conduct first launch of Ground Launched Small Diameter Bomb
Defence and security company Saab and Boeing have proven that Boeing’s Small Diameter Bomb I, originally developed for use by aircraft, can be adapted for launch from a ground artillery system. The companies recently tested the Ground Launched Small Diameter Bomb (GLSDB), integrating the SDB I and M26 rocket motor technologies for the Multiple Launch Rocket System. The testing showed that the bomb can withstand a rocket artillery launch without its performance being compromised. The rocket motor in the test was provided by Nammo.
     
Saab and Boeing conduct first launch of Ground Launched Small Diameter BombView of a Ground Launched Small Diameter Bomb launched from a M270 MLRS (Image: Boeing)
     

“GLSDB combines two highly successful, combat-proven systems into an effective ground forces offensive capability,” says Beth Kluba, vice president, Boeing Weapons and Missile Systems. “Boeing and Saab bring together deep knowledge of precision weapons systems and can quickly and cost-effectively deliver GLSDB domestically and around the world”, says Beth Kluba.

GLSDB allows the artillery system to reach targets from significantly longer distances, and engage hard-to-reach targets, while maintaining the Small Diameter Bomb’s flight maneuverability and accuracy.

Under a teaming agreement signed last year, Boeing and Saab will offer GLSDB to current and future rocket artillery users.

“Saab is proud to expand our already successful cooperation with Boeing into yet another technology area – precision weapons systems,” says Görgen Johansson, head of business area Dynamics within Saab. “Together, we now offer a new and game-changing capability for the U.S. as well as the global market”, says Görgen Johansson.

The Ground Launched Small Diameter Bomb (GLSDB) revolutionizes rocket artillery. GLSDB will provide the warfighter with a long-range, precision fires weapon capable of conducting reverse slope engagements and defeating targets ranging from hardened facilities to soft-skinned assets. With 360-degree target engagement ability, GLSDB provides commanders and planners with a highly flexible weapon that complements existing ballistic trajectory weapons.

GLSDB is an integration of combat proven systems, not a developmental program. It builds upon Boeing’s highly successful Small Diameter Bomb Increment I (SDB I) and existing Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) rockets. The SDB I is a 250-pound (125kg) class weapon with an Advanced Anti-Jam Global Positioning System aided Inertial Navigation System, combined with a multipurpose penetrating blast-and-fragmentation warhead and a programmable electronic fuze. The result of this integration is an innovative, low risk weapon that provides significantly more capability over current MLRS rockets.