GBU-53/B StormBreaker

The GBU-39 follow-on developed under the SDB Increment II program, and named the GBU-40, is planned to start development in 2006. It is known that GBU-40/SDB II will provide a stand-off range of 60 nautical miles (+110 kilometers). In early 2005, GBU-40 development was committed to begin in fiscal year 2006 when GBU-39 was planned to enter into full rate production. The GBU-40 was released to be an optimized SDB intended capable of hitting moving targets on the ground following a requirement from the US Air Force and US Navy. The SDB II is expected to enter service with the Armed Forces of the United States of America by 2017. In April 2006 the US Air Force awarded contracts to two industry teams led by Boeing/Lockheed Martin (GBU-40) and Raytheon (GBU-53/B) to proceed with the SDB Increment II or SDB II risk reduction phase. The risk reduction contracts were valued at roughly $144 million. Overall SDB II program is worth $1.3 billion. System design and development phase was planned to be issued by late 2009. The US Air Force selected the Raytheon GBU-53/B design in August 2010 due to its improved seeker that features three modes of operation: millimeter-wave radar, uncooled imaging infrared and semiactive laser. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2013 with a required assets available date in late 2014. The first platforms scheduled to receive the new weapon are the F-15E, F-35B and F-35C fighter aircrafts.

deagel.com: https://www.deagel.com/x/x/a001064