Jet-Powered JDAM-LR Enters Production

Boeing has received approval to begin production of JDAM-LR (GBU-75) precision-guided munitions for the U.S. Navy.

This was reported in the manufacturer’s press release.

The JDAM-LR is a variant of the JDAM family of precision-guided bombs. The kit includes a guidance unit, systems for interfacing with the carrier aircraft, a set of deployable wings, and a compact turbojet engine. It is paired with a 230-kg bomb, which serves as its warhead. Production began following the U.S. Navy’s announcement of successful test launches of the JDAM-LR of F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fighter jets in April.

“This first production contract is an important milestone for the JDAM-LR program, demonstrating our ability to provide long-range precision strike capabilities at a significantly lower cost,” said Bob Cisl, vice president of Boeing Precision Engagement Systems.

JDAM variants

JDAM (Joint Direct Attack Munition) kits come in three main variants depending on flight range and guidance type:

• The base JDAM variant—a standard kit with an inertial navigation system (INS) and GPS—provides a launch range of 24–28 km.
• JDAM-ER (Extended Range)—a version with folding wings that increases the bomb’s flight range to 70–80 km.
• Laser JDAM (LJDAM)—a variant equipped with a laser-guided seeker for engaging moving targets.

The greatest improvement in combat capability that the JDAM-LR offers compared to existing JDAM variants is its strike range. According to Boeing, the motorized version can strike targets at distances exceeding 555 km.

The JDAM-LR uses a GPS-aided inertial navigation system borrowed from the unpowered JDAM family.

The exact unit cost of the JDAM-LR is not yet known. Standard JDAM kits cost between $20,000 and $30,000.

The JDAM-LR offers a more cost-effective and less risky way to enhance the capabilities of aircraft carrier air wings in the area of long-range munitions, as well as to replenish stocks of these weapons for prolonged combat operations.

The JDAM-LR is likely to be adopted by branches of the military other than the Navy. Foreign allies and partners, especially those that already have JDAM stockpiles, may also join this new procurement program, creating additional benefits from economies of scale.