Ukrainian F‑16s showcase precision with American bombs
A video has surfaced on social media showing a Ukrainian F-16 fighter jet equipped with American GBU-39 SDB bombs in action. As noted by the Bulgarian Military portal, this is the first film showing this type of aircraft with a full complement of GBU-39 SDBs.
The video, which is being shared across various social media platforms, is remarkable not only because of the fighter's equipment. It is also noteworthy because the F-16 belonging to the Ukrainian armed forces performed a very low flyover. This is a tactic designed to reduce the risk of detection by enemy radars.
Low flyover of the F-16
The GBU-39 SDB bombs, mounted under the F-16 and supplied by the USA, are modern munitions characterized by high precision and minimized collateral damage. Thanks to GPS and inertial navigation systems, these bombs can hit targets with an accuracy of 5 to 8 metres, even in challenging weather conditions.
The bomb weighs about 130 kilograms, and its small size allows for more munitions to be mounted under the aircraft. Bulgarian Military points out that the dimensions do not limit the capabilities of the GBU-39 SDB; on the contrary, they enhance them by ensuring highly precise targeting.
GBU-39 SDB glide bombs
Inside the warhead of the GBU-39 SDB bomb, there is nearly 100 kilograms of explosive material. A unique feature of this design is its gliding capability. This means that after the bomb is released, its wings unfold, allowing it to reach distances of up to 100 kilometres if dropped from high altitude. This provides an advantage by ensuring greater aircraft survivability—the greater the range, the safer the F-16 crew is from detection and being targeted by enemy units.
It's also worth noting that the GBU-39 SDB bomb can be carried not only by the F-16. Bulgarian Military lists it as a weapon compatible with aircraft such as the F-15 and even the F-22. "This highlights its broad compatibility and the trust the armed forces afford it," the article notes regarding this versatile bomb.
