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US Approves Sale of 400 GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bombs to Romania.
The United States has approved the sale of 400 GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bombs (SDB) to the NATO partner nation. The deal, valued at $84 million, is designed to enhance Romania's ability to address emerging security threats and strengthen its role in NATO air operations.
The U.S. Department of State has authorized the sale of the GBU-39/B precision-guided bombs, alongside an array of supporting equipment and services. (Picture source: US DoD)
The U.S. Department of State has authorized the sale of the GBU-39/B precision-guided bombs, alongside an array of supporting equipment and services. The total value of the agreement is $84 million, with the package including not only the bombs themselves but also technical support, training, publications, and essential logistical and software components.
The GBU-39/B SDB is a state-of-the-art, small-diameter guided weapon system, renowned for its compact design and precision strike capabilities. This sale will play a crucial role in enhancing Romania’s air-to-ground strike capacity, allowing the country to address both conventional and asymmetric threats with high efficiency.
The GBU-39/B SDB is a highly versatile precision-guided bomb developed by the U.S. Air Force. Weighing just 130 kg, with a length of 1.8 meters and a diameter of 190 mm, the GBU-39/B is specifically designed to offer superior accuracy while maintaining a small form factor. Its advanced design allows for effective use in both strategic and tactical operations, fitting seamlessly into a variety of combat aircraft, including the F-15E.
One of the key features of the GBU-39/B is its range. The bomb's folding wings extend its reach to up to 110 kilometers, making it highly effective against targets located far beyond the typical engagement range of conventional weapons. This extended range enhances the standoff capability of aircraft, enabling them to remain out of the reach of enemy defenses.
The bomb’s tungsten tip is engineered to penetrate hardened targets, such as concrete bunkers and shelters, ensuring its effectiveness in high-threat environments. Additionally, the GBU-39/B employs a sophisticated fuzing system that offers multiple detonation modes, allowing for precise targeting in various mission scenarios.
Guidance is achieved through an integrated inertial navigation system coupled with GPS, ensuring pinpoint accuracy even in contested or GPS-denied environments. This makes the GBU-39/B an ideal choice for a wide range of military operations, from precision strikes to counter-terrorism and anti-insurgency efforts.
The acquisition of these precision-guided bombs will provide Romania with enhanced capabilities for both defensive and offensive air operations. The bombs will serve to complement Romania’s existing fleet of aircraft and provide more robust support for NATO operations in the region.
This sale aligns with the United States' ongoing efforts to reinforce its strategic partnerships in Eastern Europe, particularly within NATO. Romania, as a key NATO ally, stands to benefit from the increased operational flexibility and enhanced deterrence power offered by the GBU-39/B SDB.
In addition to improving Romania’s defense capabilities, the sale underscores the United States' commitment to supporting its allies in the face of evolving security challenges. By equipping Romania with advanced precision strike technologies, the U.S. is contributing to a more secure and stable regional security environment, particularly in light of the ongoing tensions in Eastern Europe.
The approval of the $84 million sale of 400 GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bombs to Romania marks a significant step in enhancing the country’s defense infrastructure. The inclusion of training, logistical support, and technical assistance ensures Romania will be well-equipped to maximize the operational potential of these advanced weapons. As Romania continues to strengthen its position within NATO, the addition of these cutting-edge munitions will undoubtedly play a key role in its defense strategy, improving both its deterrence capabilities and its ability to contribute to allied air operations.