US considers sending AGM-154 glide bombs to Ukraine to strike distant Russian positions.

On September 20, 2024, information published by "Politico" indicated that the United States is considering sending the AGM-154 Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW) called glide bomb to Ukraine as part of a new $375 million military aid package. This advanced precision-guided munition is expected to significantly enhance the operational effectiveness of Ukraine's new fleet of F-16 fighter jets.
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The F-35 Lightning II Pax River Integrated Test Force from Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23 conducted the first weapons separation test of an AGM-154 Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW) from an F-35C Lightning II carrier variant March 23. (Picture source: U.S. DoD)

The AGM-154 JSOW is a family of low-cost, air-to-ground glide bombs developed by Raytheon Technologies. Designed for standoff engagements, it allows aircraft to release the weapon from a considerable distance away from the target area, thereby minimizing the risk to pilots and aircraft from enemy air defenses. With a range of up to 130 km when launched from high altitude, the JSOW enables strikes without entering heavily defended airspace. Its GPS/INS navigation systems provide high accuracy against both stationary and moving targets.

A Glide bomb is a type of precision-guided munition designed to glide towards its target after being released from an aircraft, allowing it to hit distant targets without requiring the plane to fly directly over them. Unlike traditional bombs that fall freely under gravity, Glide bombs are equipped with aerodynamic surfaces and control systems, enabling them to maneuver and extend their range. Some Glide bombs are equipped with GPS or laser guidance systems for enhanced accuracy, and they are often used to minimize risks to pilots by allowing attacks from standoff distances.

This weapon can be configured with various warheads, including unitary blast-fragmentation and submunitions, making it effective against a wide range of targets such as armored vehicles, infrastructure, and air defense systems. Advanced versions of the JSOW are equipped with datalink capabilities, allowing for in-flight target updates and retargeting, which enhances mission flexibility.

The introduction of the AGM-154 JSOW into Ukraine's arsenal is poised to significantly boost its combat capabilities. The standoff range of the JSOW allows Ukrainian forces to engage high-value targets deep within contested territories without exposing their aircraft to enemy air defenses. This capability is crucial for disrupting supply lines, command and control centers, and other strategic assets held by opposing forces.

By enabling attacks from outside the reach of most surface-to-air missiles, the JSOW reduces the risk to pilots and aircraft—a critical factor given the advanced air defense systems deployed in the region. The weapon's advanced guidance systems ensure high accuracy, minimizing collateral damage and increasing the likelihood of mission success. This precision is vital for operations conducted in areas where avoiding civilian casualties is a priority.

The JSOW's ability to be reprogrammed in-flight allows pilots to respond dynamically to changing battlefield conditions, making operations more adaptive and effective. Its compatibility with F-16 fighter jets means Ukraine can fully leverage the capabilities of its new aircraft fleet, thereby enhancing overall air combat effectiveness.

The potential transfer of AGM-154 JSOWs signifies a deepening military collaboration between the United States and Ukraine. It reflects a strategic effort to equip Ukraine with advanced offensive systems that can serve as a deterrent against aggression. However, this move may also escalate regional tensions, as supplying such advanced weaponry could be perceived by opposing forces as a significant shift in the balance of power, potentially leading to heightened military responses.

As of October 2023, the United States has continued to provide substantial military aid to Ukraine in response to Russia's ongoing invasion. This aid includes advanced weaponry such as High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), anti-aircraft systems, armored vehicles, and various types of drones. The U.S. has also supplied significant amounts of ammunition and provided training to Ukrainian forces to enhance their operational effectiveness.

In addition to equipment and training, the U.S. government has allocated billions of dollars in financial assistance to support Ukraine's defense efforts. This support is part of a broader international coalition aimed at upholding Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The aid underscores the U.S. commitment to maintaining regional stability and deterring further aggression.