US approves $115 million sale of Small Diameter StormBreaker Bombs to Belgium

Europe, News, US July 30, 2024 , by IRIA No Comments

The U.S. State Department has greenlighted a potential $115 million military sale to Belgium involving Small Diameter Bomb-Increment IIs (SDB-II), also known as GBU-53/B StormBreakers.

The potential sale agreement encompasses 196 SDB-II all-up rounds along with essential training, maintenance, and logistical support. This deal is set to bolster Belgium’s defense capabilities by arming its newly acquired fleet of 34 F-35 fighter jets.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) emphasized the strategic importance of this sale, stating, “The proposed sale will improve Belgium’s capability to meet current and future threats by maintaining its F-35 fleet in combat-ready status and providing a credible deterrent to regional threats.” By equipping its F-35s with these advanced munitions, Belgium aims to enhance its deterrence and operational readiness in the face of evolving security challenges.

RTX Corporation, formerly known as Raytheon Technologies, has been identified as the principal contractor for this transaction.

The SDB-II is an advanced air-to-ground glide weapon, equipped with a tri-mode seeker that includes millimeter wave radar, imaging infrared, and semi-active laser guidance systems. This sophisticated technology allows the weapon to effectively engage both moving and stationary targets under adverse weather conditions.

RTX, the developer of the SDB-II, elaborates on its capabilities: “Millimeter wave radar detects and tracks target through adverse weather while imaging infrared provides enhanced target discrimination. The semi-active laser enables the weapon to track an airborne laser designator or one on the ground.” These features ensure the SDB-II can perform precise strikes regardless of environmental conditions, offering a significant advantage in various combat scenarios.

Raytheon Missiles & Defense's StormBreaker bomb — *^{Raytheon Missiles & Defense’s StormBreaker bomb. (Image Credit: Raytheon)}*

The StormBreaker is designed with a 47.6-kilogram multimode-shaped blast/fragmentation warhead, which autonomously prioritizes targets to maximize impact. The weapon utilizes a Global Positioning/Inertial Navigation System (GPS/INS) for accurate guidance and boasts a strike range of 45 miles (72 kilometers). This capability allows the F-35s to engage targets from a considerable distance, enhancing their operational flexibility and survivability.

In terms of performance, the SDB-II has demonstrated exceptional reliability and effectiveness. During recent F-35C Lightning II fighter jet test launches, the weapon achieved a 100 percent success rate, successfully hitting 14 out of 14 designated targets. This impressive track record underscores the weapon’s precision and reliability, reinforcing its value to Belgium’s defense strategy.

The acquisition of the SDB-II by Belgium marks a significant step in its efforts to modernize its military capabilities. Integrating these advanced munitions with the F-35 fleet is expected to enhance Belgium’s ability to conduct precise and effective air-to-ground operations, strengthening its overall defense posture. This move aligns with Belgium’s broader strategy to address current and future threats through advanced technology and robust military preparedness.