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Sweden Invests in Mk82 Bombs to Strengthen Strike Capability of Its Gripen Fighter Fleet.


The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has signed a contract with Rheinmetall Italia SPA for the procurement of a batch of Mk82 bombs to enhance the Swedish Air Force's air-to-ground strike capability. This acquisition, part of Sweden’s broader effort to modernize its arsenal, aims to increase its stock of precision munitions and improve interoperability with NATO forces. It represents another step in Sweden’s military integration within the Alliance and reflects its objective of adapting its aerial capabilities to current strategic requirements.

The Swedish Air Force has operated the JAS 39 Gripen since 1996 and currently fields approximately 80 Gripen C/D aircraft, with an order for 60 new Gripen E models underway (Picture source: Forsvarsmakten)


The Mk82 bomb is a 500-pound (227 kg) air-to-ground munition designed for versatile use. It features a steel casing filled with 87 to 89 kg of explosives such as Tritonal or Composition H6 and can be deployed in either unguided or guided configurations. It is compatible with GBU-12 Paveway II (laser-guided) and GBU-38 JDAM (GPS/INS-guided) kits, providing operational flexibility while minimizing collateral damage and increasing target accuracy. The standard variant generates a lethal radius of up to 2,400 m², while the pre-fragmented PFB-82 version extends this area to 19,200 m² through optimized fragmentation dispersion.

Widely used since the 1950s, the Mk82 has been employed in major conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf Wars, and more recent operations in Iraq, Libya, and Afghanistan. Its large-scale production, primarily in the United States and Europe, makes it one of the most widely used aerial bombs. It is integrated into various combat aircraft, including the F-16, F-35, and JAS 39 Gripen. By adding these munitions to its inventory, Sweden enhances the flexibility of its air force while aligning with NATO standards for precision strikes.

The Swedish Air Force has operated the JAS 39 Gripen since 1996 and currently fields approximately 80 Gripen C/D aircraft, with an order for 60 new Gripen E models underway. The Gripen C/D is primarily used for air defense, reconnaissance, and ground attack missions, while the Gripen E, equipped with an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar and a General Electric F414G turbofan engine, significantly enhances Sweden’s aerial combat capability. Designed for multi-role operations, the Gripen can reach speeds of Mach 2 and carry up to 5,300 kg of weapons on eight hardpoints, supporting a wide range of missiles and bombs.

According to Martin Anderberg, head of combat aircraft systems at FMV, this acquisition is part of Sweden’s broader initiative to improve the effectiveness of its air force in a changing security environment. By integrating the Mk82 bombs into both the Gripen C/D and E models, Sweden strengthens its strike potential while optimizing its combat aviation capability within NATO.

The first deliveries are scheduled for spring 2025. The contract is valued at over 100 million Swedish kronor, which, based on similar European acquisitions, could correspond to approximately 500 units. This procurement follows Sweden’s recent investments in Litening 5 targeting pods from Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles. These purchases demonstrate Sweden’s commitment to equipping its air force with modern and interoperable weapon systems.

Rheinmetall Italia SPA, a key European supplier of Mk82 bombs, plays a significant role in providing precision munitions to NATO member states. This acquisition enhances Sweden’s offensive capabilities while further consolidating its integration within the Alliance. The addition of the Mk82 to Sweden’s air force arsenal supports the country's broader military development, aligning with its strategic commitments within NATO and its evolving security requirements.


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