GBU-39 small diameter bomb sits in the munitions storage area. (DVIDS)
The US State Department has recently approved Romania’s request for a significant defense acquisition, authorizing the potential sale of multiple Guided Bomb Unit (GBU)-39B Small Diameter Bombs (SDBs) valued at $84 million.
This approval marks a critical step in Romania’s continued efforts to modernize its military and participate more actively in NATO coalition air operations.
The GBU-39B Small Diameter Bombs: A Precision Strike Weapon
Boeing’s GBU-39B SDB is a precision-guided air-to-surface weapon designed to deliver a low-cost and low-collateral-damage strike.
Operational since 2006, the GBU-39B is known for its effectiveness in hitting targets with minimal unintended damage, making it a valuable tool for modern air forces engaged in sensitive operations.
Each SDB is 70.8 inches (180 cm) long, 7.5 inches (19 cm) wide, and can hit targets up to 60 nautical miles (approximately 69 miles or 111 kilometers) away.
The weapon relies on an inertial navigation system and global positioning system (GPS) to ensure pinpoint accuracy, allowing for highly effective strikes even from extended ranges.
Romania plans to acquire 400 GBU-39B SDB-I units, along with a few GBU-39 (T-1)/B inert practice bombs, which will provide the country with a robust capability to engage in modern, precision air strikes.
Supporting Equipment and Program Enhancements
Along with the GBU-39B SDBs, Romania’s purchase includes critical supporting equipment to maximize the effectiveness of these advanced weapons.
The US State Department has recently approved Romania’s request for a significant defense acquisition, authorizing the potential sale of multiple Guided Bomb Unit (GBU)-39B Small Diameter Bombs (SDBs) valued at $84 million.
This approval marks a critical step in Romania’s continued efforts to modernize its military and participate more actively in NATO coalition air operations.
The GBU-39B Small Diameter Bombs: A Precision Strike Weapon
Boeing’s GBU-39B SDB is a precision-guided air-to-surface weapon designed to deliver a low-cost and low-collateral-damage strike.
Operational since 2006, the GBU-39B is known for its effectiveness in hitting targets with minimal unintended damage, making it a valuable tool for modern air forces engaged in sensitive operations.
Each SDB is 70.8 inches (180 cm) long, 7.5 inches (19 cm) wide, and can hit targets up to 60 nautical miles (approximately 69 miles or 111 kilometers) away.
The weapon relies on an inertial navigation system and global positioning system (GPS) to ensure pinpoint accuracy, allowing for highly effective strikes even from extended ranges.
Romania plans to acquire 400 GBU-39B SDB-I units, along with a few GBU-39 (T-1)/B inert practice bombs, which will provide the country with a robust capability to engage in modern, precision air strikes.
Supporting Equipment and Program Enhancements
Along with the GBU-39B SDBs, Romania’s purchase includes critical supporting equipment to maximize the effectiveness of these advanced weapons.
The deal encompasses GBU-39 tactical training rounds, common munitions built-in-test/reprogramming equipment, and ADU-890E computer test set adapter groups. These tools will enable Romania’s air force to maintain and effectively use the weapons once they are integrated into its arsenal.
The purchase also includes containers, spare parts, logistics, and program support to ensure that Romania can fully leverage the SDBs in real-world operational conditions.
This acquisition is not only a significant upgrade for Romania’s air force but also reflects its commitment to enhancing its role within NATO defense operations.
— Political-Military Affairs, US Dept of State (@StateDeptPM) February 18, 2025
A Modernized Air Force with F-16 and F-35A Jets
Romania’s acquisition of the GBU-39B Small Diameter Bombs is part of a broader effort to modernize its air force and bolster its defense capabilities.
The country’s Air Force currently operates a fleet of Lockheed Martin-manufactured F-16 fighter jets, which are capable of deploying these precision-guided bombs. The GBU-39B will be fully compatible with Romania’s existing fleet, allowing for an immediate enhancement of their operational capabilities.
In addition to the F-16s, Romania made headlines in November 2023 with an approximately $6.5-billion deal to acquire 32 F-35A Lightning II fighter jets, which are also capable of launching the SDBs.
Expected to be delivered in the early 2030s, these advanced stealth fighters will further modernize Romania’s air force and provide additional power for precision strikes, making Romania a more formidable player in NATO’s defense strategy.
Romania’s NATO Commitment and Strategic Importance
As a NATO member, Romania’s defense strategy aligns closely with the alliance’s goals of maintaining regional stability and countering emerging threats.
The country’s acquisition of advanced precision-guided munitions like the GBU-39B SDB is not only a strategic move to enhance its own defense but also a step toward increasing its contributions to NATO’s collective security.
Romania’s efforts to modernize its military come at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, particularly in Eastern Europe, where neighboring Ukraine has been using the GBU-39B SDBs since late 2023 to target Russian positions.
The weapons’ successful use in Ukraine underscores their effectiveness in modern conflict and highlights Romania’s position in the broader security dynamics of the region.
An F-35C Lightning II fighter aircraft equipped with an inert GBU-53/B SDB II. (DVIDS)
The SDBs’ Role in Ukraine and Beyond
Romania’s neighbor Ukraine, which has been at the forefront of the conflict with Russia, is already benefiting from the capabilities of the GBU-39B SDB.
In late 2023, Ukraine received its first batch of these precision weapons, and in October 2024, it was confirmed that the US Air Force would be providing another round of SDBs as part of a $6.9-billion order.
The operational success of the SDBs in Ukraine has proven their worth, demonstrating their ability to engage high-value targets with minimal collateral damage, a critical factor in modern warfare.
As Romania integrates these weapons into its own air force, it will significantly bolster its defense posture and its ability to respond to regional threats.
Final Thoughts: Romania’s Growing Military Strength
Romania’s $84-million acquisition of the GBU-39B SDBs marks a significant step in the country’s ongoing efforts to modernize its defense capabilities. By enhancing its air force with precision-guided munitions and advanced fighter jets, Romania is positioning itself as a key contributor to NATO’s security framework.
The integration of the GBU-39B SDBs into Romania’s military arsenal, alongside the country’s investment in F-35A jets, ensures that Romania will be better equipped to face future challenges in a rapidly changing global security environment.
With a focus on precision, affordability, and minimal collateral damage, the SDBs are set to become a cornerstone of Romania’s defense strategy, enabling the country to play a stronger role in regional and global security initiatives.
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