HELLFIRE So all 80 JDAMs were dropped in a 20 second window during the test, which would indicate these bombs were not targeted individually by a person on the aircraft during release. The target pattern was chosen before release, probably on a digital target map. Say the first 4 dozen on the specified targets, with the remainder laid out in a “mandatory fun” pattern that would show targeting precision of GBU-38 retrofits on the Mk-82 500lb dumb bombs. Before this test concluded, only the 1000lb and 2000lb bombs were getting guidance retrofits operationally.
Although it sounds like the bomb rack on the aircraft did have some communications abilities, so the bombs could’ve been pre-programmed with their coordinates during flight. That would give flexible targeting options after take-off. It made targeting specific mobile people/cars from 30,000ft easier with less collateral damage during the GWOT.
Later tests were to be conducted with smaller aircraft and drones. It also led to the development of the 250lb Mk-81/GBU-29 (cancelled), 250lb GBU-39B Small Diameter Bombs and 250lb SDBII GBU-53/B StormBreaker
Pinpoint bomb strikes for the win. Getting into the “To whom it may concern….” or even “Dear Mr….” categories unheard of just a few years before.
