With corrected deficiencies: US ready to resume supplying Ukraine with precision-guided bombs GLSDB
The United States plans to resume deliveries of GLSDB precision-guided rocket-propelled bombs after they have been upgraded. This will be possible after the shortcomings identified during the use of these weapons by the Ukrainian Defence Forces are addressed.
Here's What We Know
According to Reuters, GLSDB ammunition was purchased by the administration of former US President Joe Biden as part of the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. However, after certain problems were identified, their use was suspended.
In recent weeks, 19 GLSDB units have been tested to assess the effectiveness of the upgrades. According to the sources, one of the key changes was to strengthen the internal connections to increase the stability of the ammunition.
The upgraded GLSDBs are expected to reappear on the battlefield in the coming days, as stocks are already in Europe.
GLSDB at the AUSA exhibition in 2022. Illustration: Aaron-Matthew Lariosa
To explain, the GLSDB combines the GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bomb (SDB), a 130kg precision-guided aerial bomb, with a rocket engine from an M26 rocket. It has a range of up to 150 kilometres and is launched from HIMARS, although other launchers can be used. The system uses a GPS satellite system and inertial navigation for guidance.
Earlier it was reported that the GLSDB faced problems due to Russian electronic warfare (EW) systems that prevented them from hitting their intended targets. The upgrade likely takes into account these challenges to improve the effectiveness of the munitions on the battlefield.
Source: Reuters