Ukrainian Air Force unveils JDAM-ER guided bombs on fighter aircraft for first time.

On June 4, 2023, the Ukrainian Air Force Commander published pictures on their Telegram social network, showcasing JDAM-ER guided bombs mounted on Ukrainian Air Force fighter aircraft for the first time.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

JDAM-ER guided bomb mounted on Ukrainian Air Force fighter aircraft. (Picture source Twitter Commander Of Ukrainian Air Force  Mykola Oleschuk)

For the past few months, the Ukrainian Air Force has been using JDAM (Joint Direct Attack Munition) bombs, which are precision munitions manufactured by Western countries. These bombs have been effectively deployed by Ukrainian aircraft to strike vital targets. While slightly less powerful, they offer exceptional precision. Ukraine is eager to acquire more of these bombs to further enhance its successes on the front lines.

The integration of JDAM in modern warfare has significantly improved the capabilities of air forces worldwide, reducing collateral damage and increasing mission success rates. The Joint Direct Attack Munition-Extended Range (JDAM-ER) is an advanced weapon system that enhances the capabilities of traditional JDAMs by extending their operational range.

This innovative technology equips unguided bombs with GPS guidance, transforming them into precision munitions capable of accurately striking targets at longer distances. The extended range of the JDAM-ER and its all-weather functionality provide military forces with increased strategic flexibility, allowing them to engage enemy assets with enhanced precision while reducing collateral damage.

With this new type of equipment, the Ukrainian Air Force gains a new tactical advantage with JDAM-ER-equipped bombs, enabling them to reach targets up to 72 km away when launched from an altitude of 14 km. These munitions also offer a high level of precision, minimizing the risk of collateral damage and increasing mission success rates.

The delivery of JDAM-ER kits to Ukraine holds strategic importance as it strengthens the country's aerial capabilities against the Soviet-era bombs used by Russian forces. Traditionally, Russian forces have utilized FAB-500 bombs from the Soviet era, modified with "wings" and GPS targeting systems. However, the precision of these Russian bombs is often insufficient, posing a significant risk to civilian infrastructure.

By utilizing JDAM-ER bombs, the Ukrainian Air Force has access to precision munitions manufactured by Western countries. Although slightly less powerful than Soviet bombs, JDAM-ER offers exceptional precision. This increased accuracy allows Ukrainian aircraft to effectively strike vital targets.
The delivery of JDAM-ER to Ukraine demonstrates the commitment of the United States to support Ukrainian forces in their fight to defend their sovereignty and security. This military assistance contributes to enhancing Ukraine's capabilities in its current counteroffensive.