This “hunter-killer” capability offers a significant advantage on the battlefield.
JDAM-ER: The Workhorse Gets an Upgrade
The JDAM-ER is a Boeing-produced precision guidance kit. It transforms a free-fall bomb into a smart weapon, increasing its range and accuracy.
Since May 2023, the Ukrainian Air Force has been utilizing JDAM-ERs launched from their Soviet-era MiG-29 Fulcrums and Su-27 Flankers.
These jets, while not the most modern on the battlefield, have proven surprisingly effective in the hands of skilled Ukrainian pilots.
The addition of the HOJ seeker promises to significantly enhance the JDAM-ER’s capabilities, negating the impact of Russian jamming and ensuring continued effectiveness against heavily defended targets.
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American JDAM-ER glide bomb on a #Ukrainian MiG-29.JDAM-ER (Extended Range) is an upgrade kit for an aerial bomb with a correction module and wings that open in flight, allowing the bomb to glide to its target over a long distance. pic.twitter.com/XnOxANmuDU
— ConflictLive 💬 (@conflict_live) May 3, 2024
Contract Details and Timeline: A Long-Term Commitment
The contract, awarded on May 2nd, 2024, outlines a completion date of October 1st, 2025. This timeline indicates a long-term commitment from the US to provide a sustainable solution for Ukraine.
The project leverages funding from Fiscal 2023 and is categorized as a Sole Source Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase III acquisition.
This highlights two key aspects: First, the US supports innovative solutions from smaller American companies. Second, it underscores this technology’s urgency and critical nature for Ukraine’s ongoing struggle.
Impact on the Battlefield: Regaining the Upper Hand
The integration of HOJ seekers with JDAM-ERs can be a game-changer as Ukrainian forces can regain the upper hand when it comes to precision strikes.
This not only improves target accuracy but also minimizes civilian casualties by reducing the need for multiple bomb runs on the same target.
Furthermore, the “hunter-killer” ability of the HOJ seeker can potentially take out Russian jamming infrastructure, further disrupting their electronic warfare tactics.
This creates a domino effect, potentially crippling Russia’s ability to blind Ukrainian strikes across a wider area.
Beyond Ukraine: A Broader Message of Innovation
The US Air Force’s investment in HOJ seeker technology signifies a proactive approach to countering evolving threats on the battlefield.
This collaboration between American innovation and Ukrainian determination promises to be a significant factor in the ongoing conflict.
Likewise, the success of HOJ seekers could have broader implications. As electronic warfare tactics become more sophisticated, the ability to not only resist jamming but also exploit it for offensive purposes could become a crucial tool in future conflicts.
The skies over Ukraine may be the testing ground, but the lessons learned here could have a lasting impact on the way airpower is employed in the years to come.
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