F‑16 jets redefined: Ukraine's bomb quadruplet strategy
A photo has emerged in Ukraine showing one of the delivered F-16 aircraft in a new role. We present what it is and what role it played in this "bomb quadruplet".
The previously delivered F-16A/B MLU aircraft to Ukraine were seen in air-to-air weapon configurations, which indicates their use as a supplement to ground-based air defence while hunting down drones and cruise missiles.
Now, in the image below, you can see a mixed configuration allowing for attacks on ground targets, which was previously the domain of MiG-29 aircraft. You can clearly see two BRU-61 pods containing four GBU-39 SDB bombs each and a total of four air-to-air missiles, with two being AIM-120 AMRAAMs and the other two AIM-9 Sidewinders in 9L and 9X versions (differences in the fins). You can also see a targeting pod on the central pylon, which some commentators identify as AN/ALQ-131.
F-16 with a bomb quadruplet — powerful strike capabilities
The Ukrainian F-16 in Ukraine carried a load of GBU-39B Small Diameter Bombs (SDB) introduced into service with the USAF in 2006. These are very interesting guided bombs weighing 122 kilograms and measuring 180 centimetres in length. They were designed for precision targeting to compensate for their small explosive power. Their unique feature is the ability to place up to four bombs on a single aircraft pylon.
Their accuracy is stated to reach about 1 metre, but in situations where GPS jamming systems are used, the accuracy may decrease. However, there is a version of the GBU-39/B that guides itself using a laser beam reflected off the target instead of GPS, maintaining 100% of its stated precision even in such demanding situations. This method requires that the target be illuminated by a laser from the ground observer, aircraft, or drone until impact.
SDB bomb — the "featherweight" guided aerial bomb
The SDB bomb is designed with folding wings, enabling it to hit targets up to 111 kilometres away when dropped from high altitude. Most of its mass is attributed to the 93-kilogram warhead, which can operate in various modes. One mode allows for airburst detonation, causing a literal shower of fragments capable of piercing anything not armoured or located underground.
Another mode allows for delayed detonation or a classic impact detonation. All this, combined with the ability to penetrate up to 89 centimetres of reinforced concrete, makes it a handy weapon for destroying, for instance, forward bases or field fortifications capable of withstanding conventional artillery fire.
